1358 Does A COVID Protected Hospital Within A COVID Hospital Enable Elective Care and Training Opportunities?. (12th October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rashid, H; Gala, T; Ain, Q; Ashraf, H; Vesamia, S; Vig, S
• Is Part Of: British journal of surgery. Volume 108:Supplement 6(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-10-12
• Subjects: Surgery -- Periodicals; 617.005
• DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znab259.502
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1323

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: Elective care in the UK came to a standstill with the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic. A restart could only be enabled with 'green site' separation and a 'covid protected' zone. A 'hospital within the hospital' concept was developed including 9 elective theatres, 28 ring fenced elective beds, a surgical enhanced care unit, a canteen, and a separated entrance. This model was underpinned with PPE, enhanced infection control and guidance for staff. The study documented the ability to recover elective activity and therefore provide a training environment for surgical trainees. Method: Data was collected weekly (7/20 to 1/21) through the business informatics system with regard to theatres cases completed compared to the activity achieved in the 11-theatre elective estate pre COVID-19. Results: Pre COVID-19, an average of 263 cases were completed per week. In the first week of operation, 31% of theatre capacity was achieved. By week 7, 106% of pre COVID was recorded and 130% by week 11. This was maintained until the impact of the second wave where activity has reduced to 50% but is not anticipated to reduce further as local anaesthetic and blocks maybe utilised. Conclusions: This 'hospital within the hospital' has enabled elective care to return to above normal levels, with increased efficiencies. This has enabled a rapid return to a training environment for trainees disheartened with deployment to critical care in the first wave.