Point-of-care PCR testing of SARS-CoV-2 in the emergency department: Influence on workflow and efficiency.

ABSTRACT:

Problem

Regarding transmissible viral diseases such as those caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus, one of the key challenges is isolation management until final diagnosis. This study investigates the influence of SARS-CoV-2 point-of-care (POC) PCR on workflow and efficiency in an emergency department (ED) of a tertiary university hospital.

Method

An analysis of 17,875 ED patients receiving either SARS-CoV-2 POC PCR (rapid PCR, 11,686 patients) or conventional laboratory SARS-CoV-2 PCR (conventional PCR, 6,189 patients) was performed. The pathways for both groups were mapped and compared, and process times from admission to diagnosis were measured. Effects on resource management within the ED were quantified. Direct costs due to isolation, loss of capacities, and revenues were calculat

SUBMITTER: Fistera D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10399729 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature