RADIOLOGY DEPARTMENT PREPAREDNESS FOR COVID-19 PANDEMIC IN HEALTH CARE INSTITUTES OF INTERIOR SINDH, PAKISTAN

Kiran Hilal, Najam Ud Din, Faheemullah Khan, Muhammad Azeemuddin, Muhammad Kashif Shazlee, Mukhtiar Ahmed Memon

Abstract


Objective: Considering the important role of diagnostic imaging in disease management this audit was done to assess the radiology department preparedness of health institutes of interior Sindh regarding COVID-19.

Methods: This interview based clinical audit of health institutes of interior Sindh was undertaken via telephone from March 19, 2020 till March 25, 2020. Total of 12 Cities/Districts of Interior Sindh were covered. Total of 19 imaging departments were surveyed. Twenty-one (21) radiologists working at these institutes were called and interviewed. Their response was noted regarding all the study items.

Results: Only 36 % of the centers had screening practices for SARS-CoV-2 infection. None of the imaging department had enough supply of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs). None of the imaging department had imparted training to its staff on the safe practices regarding covid-19 and PPE use. None of the imaging department had standard decontamination protocols in place. While only fifty percent of the imaging departments had portable equipment (X-ray, ultrasound). Not a single department had the facility of remote reporting.

Conclusion: None of the department was found fully prepared for COVID-19 pandemic. The results depicted poor attentiveness of the radiology departments of interior Sindh regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. The results warrant early educational and administrative intervention to introduce positive and productive preparedness activities.

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References


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