Utility of a Fenestrated Drape to Reduce Aerosol Exposure During Intubation of Suspected COVID-19 Patients
Health care provider safety is fundamental to health care. Endotracheal intubation generates both droplets and aerosols, and is therefore a significant risk of exposure for diseases transmitted by these routes. SARS CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, is transmitted via contact and droplet routes, and data suggests transmission via aerosols as well. Pragmatic evidence suggests physical barriers are an effective way to reduce exposure. We developed a fenestrated drape for use in endotracheal intubation to serve as a physical barrier to reduce exposure via contact, droplets, and aerosols. Our drape is easy to construct, inexpensive to make, and offers flexibility and ease of use.
