P0737 / #1897: DESIGN, IMPROVEMENT AND ACCELERATED IMPLEMENTATION OF A NEW DEVICE TO PREVENT TRANSMISSION OF COVID-19 DURING AEROSOL-GENERATING MEDICAL PROCEDURES

Abstract

AIMS & OBJECTIVES: The SplashGuard-CG (CG for Care Givers) is an advanced barrier enclosure system inspired by Dr Hsien Yung Lai's box to limit the risk of transmission of COVID-19 during intubation. Its use has been extended to all respiratory procedures at risk of generating aerosolized particles (AP).Our objective was to describe the processes of design, improvement and accelerated implementation of the SplashGuard-CG during the challenging context of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A prospective quality-improvement study was performed. RESULTS: The first step consisted in the design of a prototype within a multidisciplinary living lab approach using computer assisted design (CAD). Multiple trials of the device in various simulated clinical situations enabled us to further improve the prototype. The second step allowed for improvement of the prototype via in situ simulated sessions of patient transport, non-invasive ventilation, and intubations. Simulated training sessions were then organized for medical teams from the various departments involved. Reports were produced throughout and following each session to further refine the SplashGuard-CG design (figure). Finally, dissemination to larger audiences were done by video and in writing. The entire process was completed within a month. CONCLUSIONS: Thanks to a dynamic and interdisciplinary collaboration between healthcare professionals and engineers, the use of CAD, and in-situ simulations, the rapid and secure implementation of a new healthcare device, the SplashGuard-CG, was made possible in times of crisis.