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?:abstract
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INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVE: In March, thrown into the 2019 Novel Coronavirus pandemic the first test result was returned on the first suspected of this virus. Since, we implemented numerous plans of action, control measures, test procedures and managed the flow of accurate information to the entire facility. METHODS: Control and leadership engagement were key to our success. Control of collection process, creating collection “kits”, methods of shipment, results reporting and regulated distribution. Key players maintained order and track all samples on a spreadsheet. The spreadsheet utilized was the most vital tool in weeks to come. Daily updates for both supplies and samples. Simultaneously, researching test capabilities with current analyzers. Daily huddles and group meetings to coordinate all efforts which included manning. RESULTS: Supply counts three times a day at the start and collection “kits” weekly. This measured the capabilities initially. Counting errors lead to numerous redundancies. This was a burden and abandoned. Reference laboratory instructions were verified for all transport media allowed and was as a starting point. Daily usage was subtracted. Patient management was populated with sample specificities, patient demographics and testing locations. Every result called to provider, public health, infectious disease, and a sanitized report to hospital management. This data became “the” source and used as a check against other methods. Later only positives were notified. In April, microbiology implemented Cepheid GeneXpert (Sunnyvale, Ca.). Protocols established changed rapidly. Confusion drove subpar test utilization this created processing errors. Multiple shifts were trained previously and no lag was noted. A back-up, BioFire Torch (Salt Lake City, Utah), was validated. CONCLUSION: After eight weeks, over 900 tests, 800 patients and two systems brought online. Overall, a dedicated white board specific to COVID news was established. The “normalcy” phase has hit. Some early protocols have been established as working methods and new members were brought into the fold.
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