Ministry issues SOP to health workers on dealing with corona patients

New Delhi, March 29 (IANS) The Health Ministry has issued guidelines and standard operating procedure to the health workers dealing with the Covid-19
pandemic in the country.

The SOP says that all suspect cases must be admitted to isolation facilities, adding those in close contact are most vulnerable. It has also issued guidelines for ambulances transporting patients to “strict adhere” to cleaning and decontamination protocols.

The fleet in-charge or person designated by CMO/CS will supervise its adherence. Call centres after receiving the call will try to triage the condition of the patient and accordingly dispatch either ALS, BLS or other registered ambulances.

“However, ensure that 102 ambulances should not be used for corona patients and should only be used for transporting pregnant women and sick infants,” the SOP said.

The Ambulance staff should be trained and oriented about common signs
and symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough and difficulty in breathing).

The Ministry provided FAQ on the symptoms of the coronavirus and be aware about common infection, prevention and control practices including use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Both the EMT and driver of ambulance will wear PPE while handling, managing and transporting the COVID identified/ suspect patients. Similar use of PPE is to be ensured by the health personnel at receiving health facility.

Patients and attendants should be provided with triple layer mask and
gloves. Simple public health measures such as hand hygiene and respiratory etiquettes need to be adhered to by all.

The SOP said that after getting the SOS call, the health worker will assess the situation on the phone and after instruction by the supervisor would proceed.

The advisory also calls for weekly monitoring and supervision by the CMO to assess the situation and also logistics support of medicine and essential equipment.