Guidelines of the Croatian Society for Hyperbaric Medicine of the Croatian Medical Society: implementation of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract:

In Croatia, most hyperbaric oxygen treatments (HBOT) are performed in multisite hyperbaric chambers. Despite strict measures for cleaning and disinfecting masks and other breathing equipment, patients are still at risk for transmitting the corona virus. In view of the current epidemiological situation, it is recommended that each medical hyperbaric facility reviews the risks of using HBOT, which should include: epidemiological restrictions regarding medical services, the need to use HBOT for each patient, limiting indications for HBOT and the number of sessions to a minimum whilst taking into account clinical indications, course of treatment, age and general status of the patient, chamber size and possibilities for distancing patients within the chamber. Recommendations for the implementation of HBOT should be considered, along with all other general and relevant medical recommendations.

Key words:
COVID 19; guidelines; hyperbaric oxygen therapy