Journal of the College of Physicians and Surgeons--Pakistan : JCPSP
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J Coll Physicians Surg Pak · Jan 2021
Case ReportsCOVID-19 Presenting with Spontaneous Pneumothorax.
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The disease mainly affects respiratory system. Its common clinical findings include fever, cough and shortness of breath. ⋯ COVID-19 was diagnosed on testing of nasopharyngeal swab. In conclusion, spontaneous pneumothorax is one of the rare presentations of COVID-19 pneumonia and should be kept in mind in patients presenting with shortness of breath and chest pain. Key Words: Spontaneous pneumothorax, Corona, pneumonia.
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J Coll Physicians Surg Pak · Jan 2021
Predictors of Mortality in Patients with COVID-19 Infection-associated Acute Kidney Injury.
To determine clinical characteristics, renal replacement therapy (RRT) requirements, and predictors of mortality in critically ill patients with COVID-19 associated AKI. ⋯ In critically ill patients with COVID-19 pneumonia, who developed AKI, it was seen that the presence of low albumin, high LDH, and stage 3 AKI at the time of admission could be used as predictors of mortality. Moreover,, it was shown for the first time that in these patients, the high CRP/albumin ratio and low RDW could be associated with mortality. Key Words: Acute kidney injury, Mortality, COVID-19.
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J Coll Physicians Surg Pak · Jan 2021
Health Systems Approach to Ensure Quality and Safety Amid COVID-19 Pandemic in Pakistan.
Ensuring quality and safe care during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic offers a challenge to already strained health systems in low and middle-income countries (LMICs), such as Pakistan with less shock-absorbing capacities. There is a dearth of evidence on mechanisms to provide optimum quality care to COVID-19 patients in the resource-constrained healthcare environment. ⋯ Research evidence is needed to be better prepared for an effective and coordinated health systems response to offer quality and safe care to patients. Key Words: Health systems approach, COVID-19 pandemic, Quality of healthcare, Safe care.
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J Coll Physicians Surg Pak · Jan 2021
Protective Modifications in Ophthalmology Practice during COVID-19 Pandemic: Challenges and Lessons Learned.
Ophthalmology is a specialty which involves close contact with patients. Personal protective equipment (PPE) along with modifications in examination techniques and equipment are needed to avoid spread of coronavirus infectious disease (COVID-19) to health professionals. This communication aims to highlight and critically analyse the measures suggested to control this spread. ⋯ As with any practice, triage is cornerstone. Use of disinfectants, good personal hygiene practices and PPE for patients and staff, must be adopted for safe ophthalmology practices. Key Words: COVID-19, Ophthalmology, Personal protective equipment (PPE).
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J Coll Physicians Surg Pak · Jan 2021
Airway Management for Emergent Surgeries during COVID-19 Pandemic.
Aerosol generating procedures (AGPs) performed in the operating room during general anesthesia and surgery can contaminate the operation room environment putting the anesthetist, surgeons and paramedical staff at risk of infection with the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for SARS-CoV-2 has low sensitivity and is time-bound. ⋯ In this communication, we summarised the modifications required in anesthesia technique during intubation and extubation of a patient's airway that would decrease the risk of virus transmission to the operation theatre staff. Key Words: COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, Emergent surgeries, Anesthesia technique.