Ultrasound infection prevention during the COVID-19 pandemic

Learning Objectives

• Describe the applications of ultrasound to COVID-19 management
• Evaluate SARS-CoV-2 contamination risks associated with ultrasound use
• Understand appropriate ultrasound infection control and prevention measures in accordance to guidelines
• Understand the ongoing management of SARS-CoV-2 and its implications for ultrasound use and reuse into the future

Summary

December 2019 marked the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. While efforts to contain the spread of the pandemic continue, clinical manifestations of COVID-19 are still not fully understood and diagnostic modalities such as ultrasound have become an vital tool in understanding disease progression and guiding treatment decisions. While its rapid uptake has brought great benefits to patients, managing the risk of cross-contamination remains a significant challenge for health facilities.

This session will examine the important issues associated with ultrasound use during COVID-19. Applications of ultrasound will be analysed and associated contamination risks evaluated to provide infection control and prevention measures to consider implementing now and beyond COVID-19. This session will benefit those already actively undertaking ultrasound reprocessing and use in their facilities, as well as those needing guidance on where to start.