This is our current medical practice. These recommendations and practices are evolving constantly – even daily. Osler staff are reminded to check Oslernet for direction on processes and IPAC advice.
We align with the Ministry of Health Provincial Guidance for the Province of Ontario.
Quick Reference Testing and Clearing Cases
Testing for COVID-19 is currently done by performing a nasopharyngeal swab. In special circumstances, an endotracheal aspirate or bronchoalveolar lavage may be required.
Please remember
A single negative COVID-19 NPS does not exclude COVID-19 if the pretest probability is high.
Isolation should only be modified or discontinued in consultation with IPAC and the MRP.
Other Routine Investigations or Procedures
Avoid unnecessary investigations or procedures (examples noted below) unless absolutely required and likely to change patient treatment or outcome.
Please try to avoid:
- Daily chest x-ray in an otherwise stable patient. Monitor the oxygen requirement instead.
- Echocardiography when unlikely to change management.
- Leg dopplers where suspicion is low for DVT.
- CT scans when you are not looking for an alternate diagnosis. Do not perform CT scans routinely as a normal CT scan does not rule out or rule in a COVID-19 infection.
- More than once per day bloodwork unless it is likely to change management.