ABSTRACT
The first documented case of COVID-19 in the United States occurred on January 30th, 2020. Soon after, a global pandemic was declared in March 2020 with each state issuing stay at home orders based on population, risk for community transmission and current number of positive cases. A priority for each region was to develop efficient systems for testing large patient volumes in a safe manner to reduce the risk of community transmission. A community based United States health care system in the upper mid-west implemented a drive through testing site in an attempt to divert suspected cases of COVID-19 away from larger patient areas while protecting staff and patients. This commentary outlines the planning, work flow and challenges of implementing this drive through testing site in a rural community setting.
Subject(s)
Clinical Laboratory Techniques/methods , Coronavirus Infections/diagnosis , Mass Screening/methods , Pandemics , Pneumonia, Viral/diagnosis , Rural Health Services/organization & administration , COVID-19 , COVID-19 Testing , Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology , Health Services Research , Humans , Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology , United States/epidemiologyABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Hand injuries are a common presentation to general practice and optimal hand function is essential for good quality of life. OBJECTIVE: This article outlines an approach to the initial assessment of hand injuries, explains the principles of management and provides an overview of common hand injuries. DISCUSSION: While many injuries will heal remarkably well with minimal intervention, some injuries can result in permanent disability if not treated appropriately. The resulting negative impact on quality of life can be significant. An understanding of the principles that are unique to the management of hand injuries, such as reduced periods of immobilisation and the invaluable role of hand therapists, will help ensure that optimal healing and function is achieved.
