Résumé
Introduction: SARS-CoV-2 is a highly infectious disease transmitted by aerosol and droplet particles. Respiratory function tests are aerosol generating procedures. Consequently, this increases the risk of exposure to SARS-Cov-2 to healthcare workers and patients visiting respiratory function laboratories. Proposed recommendations on pulmonary function testing during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic were published by the ERS and the ANZSRS/TSANZ. Aim(s): To identify strategies implemented in respiratory function laboratories to reduce the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. Method(s): An electronic questionnaire of respiratory laboratories on infection control measures implemented during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic was sent to active ANZSRS members in an explanatory email. All data obtained was de-identified with only one response per laboratory included in the analysis. Result(s): Responses were received from 32 laboratories. 81% were from a hospital setting, 61% were TSANZ accredited. 94% and 78% of laboratories identified that they had read the ANZSRS/TSANZ statement and the ERS statements, respectively. 25% and 22% of laboratories implemented modifications based on these statements while 13% and 9% indicated barriers prevented changes being made. Infrastructure was the main barrier identified following both statements. The main strategies implemented are summarised in the below table. Strategy implemented Laboratories (%) Triage patients on clinical urgency 91 Screening prior to appointment or on arrival 100 Scientist wearing fit-tested masks during tests 78 Scientist wearing eyewear during tests 75 Wait time post close contacts (routine-14 days) 50 Wait time post positive infection (routine-14 days) 43 Wait time post close contacts (urgent-10 days) 31 Wait time post positive infection (urgent-10 days) 22 Investigated air room changes/hour 66 Allow at least a 15-min washout period between patients 34 Investigated best cleaning methods for their equipment 65 Utilise telehealth 21 Conclusion(s): Laboratories in Australia and New Zealand have put in place a variety of changes in accordance with recommendations made in position statements to reduce risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. While some laboratories had already implemented strategies, the ERS and ANZSRS/TSANZ publications have given clear guidelines to reduce aerosolised transmission of SARS-CoV-2.