Ophthalmology practice during the COVID-19 pandemic. Issue 1 (19th April 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Safadi, Khaled; Kruger, Joshua M.; Chowers, Itay; Solomon, Abraham; Amer, Radgonde; Aweidah, Hamzah; Frenkel, Shahar; Mechoulam, Hadas; Anteby, Irene; Ben Eli, Hadas; Lavy, Itay; Jaouni, Tarek; Landau, David; Tiosano, Liran; Greifner, Gabriel; Ofir, Shay; Levi Vineberg, Tamar; Levy, Jaime
• Is Part Of: BMJ open ophthalmology. Volume 5:Issue 1(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-04-19
• Subjects: public health; Ophthalmology -- Periodicals; 617.7005
• DOI: 10.1136/bmjophth-2020-000487
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2397-3269

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: To present an established practice protocol for safe and effective hospital-setting ophthalmic practice during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Methods and Analysis: Literature was reviewed to identify articles relevant to COVID-19 pandemic and ophthalmology. The following keywords were used: COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2 and telemedicine, combined with eye, ophthalmology, conjunctivitis and tears. Data were extracted from the identified manuscripts and discussed among subspecialists to obtain consensus evidence-based practice. Results: A protocol for ophthalmic practice in the era of COVID-19 pandemic was established. The protocol covered patient screening, clinic flow, required personal protective equipment and modifications of ophthalmic equipment for improved safety. Conclusion: Important literature emerged with respect to the practice of ophthalmology in the era of COVID-19. An evidence-based ophthalmic practice protocol was established and should be modified in the future to accommodate new insights on the COVID-19 pandemic.