1. INTRODUCTION

 

 

This guideline was formulated to guide and assist health care providers working in Manila Doctors Hospital to recognize and assess cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), apply appropriate infection control precautions and make the right decision on disposition and transfer of patients to SARS referral hospitals. This guideline was adapted from the Interim Clinical Guidelines on SARS for Health Facilities in the Philippines prepared by the Technical Working Group on SARS Clinical Guidelines of Department of Health (DOH) which was reviewed by the World Health Organization (WHO). Since much is not known about SARS. It is expected that revisions will be made as new information evolve.

 

Only procedures and infection control precautions to be followed by health care workers before patients enter the Emergency Room, OPD, triage and holding area, and during transport to the SARS referral hospital are included in this document. Guideline on diagnosis and treatment of SARS is not included because it is the policy of the hospital NOT to admit SARS cases.

 

For more comprehensive information refer to updated DOH interim guidelines on SARS for health facilities in the Philippines