Article

 

Implementing a Negative-Pressure Isolation Ward for a Surge in Airborne-Infectious Patients Pubblico Deposited

https://scholar.colorado.edu/concern/articles/cn69m4837
Abstract
  • Background: During a large-scale airborne infectious disease outbreak, the number of patients needing hospital-based healthcare services may exceed available negative-pressure isolation room capacity. Methods: To test one method of increasing hospital surge capacity, a temporary negative pressure isolation ward was established at a fully functioning hospital. Negative pressure was achieved in a 30-bed hospital ward by adjusting the ventilation system. Differential pressure was continuously measured at 22 locations, and ventilation airflow was characterized throughout the ward. Results: The pressure on the test ward relative to the main hospital hallway was -29 Pa on average, approximately 10 times higher than the CDC guidance for airborne infection control. No occurrences of pressure reversal occurred at the entrances to the ward, even when staff entered the ward. Pressures within the ward changed, with some rooms becoming neutrally or slightly positively pressurized. Conclusions: This study showed that establishing a temporary negative-pressure isolation ward is an effective method to increase surge capacity in a hospital.
Creator
Date Issued
  • 2017-01-01
Academic Affiliation
Journal Title
Subject
Ultima modifica
  • 2019-12-06
Resource Type
Dichiarazione dei diritti
ISSN
  • 0196-6553
Language

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