Personal protective equipment for surgeons during COVID-19 pandemic: systematic review of availability, usage and rationing.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Surgeons need guidance regarding appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic based on scientific evidence rather than availability. The aim of this article is to inform surgeons of appropriate PPE requirements, and to discuss usage, availability, rationing and future solutions.

Methods

A systematic review was undertaken in accordance with PRISMA guidelines using MEDLINE, Embase and WHO COVID-19 databases. Newspaper and internet article sources were identified using Nexis. The search was complemented by bibliographic secondary linkage. The findings were analysed alongside guidelines from the WHO, Public Health England, the Royal College of Surgeons and specialty associations.

Results

Of a total 1329 articles identified, 95 st

SUBMITTER: Jessop ZM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7273092 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature