Research Article: Management of Pediatric Foreign Body Injuries during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Results of an International Survey
Abstract:
The COVID-19 pandemic has had direct and indirect effects on daily life. In hospitals, the impact of the pandemic was observed in the diagnostic and therapeutic workflow. In this work, we explored potential changes in activities related to the treatment of foreign body injuries (FBIs) in children and the behavioral habits of physicians during the first wave of the pandemic. An online survey was conducted among physicians of the Susy Safe network. The survey comprised items related to respondent information, reference center characteristics, the treatment of FBIs during the COVID-19 pandemic, and a modified COVID-19 Anxiety Scale (CAS). The survey was distributed among the Susy Safe project international network surveillance registry for FBIs. A total of 58 physicians responded to the survey, including 18 (32%) from Europe and 16 (28%) from South America. The respondents indicated that the estimated number of aspirated foreign bodies during the pandemic was lower than or the same as that before the pandemic (43, 74%), and the same was observed for ingested foreign bodies (43, 74%). In univariable logistic regression, no single predictor was associated with a delay in routine care for children or an increasing tendency of medical personnel to avoid procedures. The workflow of physicians involved in the management of FBIs in children has not changed drastically during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in emergency departments.
Introduction:
The COVID-19 pandemic has directly and indirectly affected people’s daily lives [1]. Although effective in limiting virus spread, containment strategies have affected everyday life, with profound modifications to individuals’ usual lifestyles, including their eating habits [2]. Furthermore, prolonged stress due to public health policies aimed at limiting the spread of COVID-19, such as total and partial lockdowns, isolation, and social distancing, has been well documented to substantially impact mental health…
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