Cir Cir. 2025;93(3):292-301. doi: 10.24875/CIRU.23000411.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: COVID-19 pandemic produced a deficit situation of intensive care units (ICU) beds. To optimize resources, the post-anesthetic resuscitation units and operating rooms were initially used in order to care for these patients, due to their equipment and personnel. This meant a significant surgical suspension. To avoid this, during the second wave, our hospital transformed the major ambulatory surgery unit into a critical care unit. The main objective is to develop the processes carried out in our hospital for this adaptation.
METHOD: Cross-sectional study developed according to STROBE that exposes the processes carried out for this transformation. We include logistical adaptations, number of patients attended/stays won and the staff with which the unit was equipped. The information was provided by management and the admission and clinical documentation service. Improvement surveys are included.
RESULTS: A total of 44 patients undergoing mechanical ventilation without cessation of surgical activity were achieved at the time of maximum occupancy. The total number of stays won from 01/03/2020 to 31/12/2020 was 755.
CONCLUSIONS: The transformation of the major ambulatory surgery unit into an ICU quickly increased the capacity of critical care beds without relenting surgical activity. This transformation process is completely reversible.
PMID:40609111 | DOI:10.24875/CIRU.23000411
