A Telemedicine Approach to Covid-19 Assessment and Triage

Abstract

Covid-19 is a new highly contagious RNA viral disease that has caused a global pandemic. Human-to-human transmission occurs primarily through oral and nasal droplets and possibly through the airborne route. The disease may be asymptomatic or the course may be mild with upper respiratory symptoms, moderate with non-life-threatening pneumonia, or severe with pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome. The severe form is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. While patients who are unstable and in acute distress need immediate in-person attention, many patients can be evaluated at home by telemedicine or videoconferencing. The more benign manifestations of Covid-19 may be managed from home to maintain quarantine, thus avoiding spread to other patients and health care workers. This document provides an overview of the clinical presentation of Covid-19, emphasizing telemedicine strategies for assessment and triage of patients. Advantages of the virtual visit during this time of social distancing are highlighted.

Keywords: Covid-19; cough; droplet; novel coronavirus; pneumonia; telehealth.

Figure 1

Decision-tree diagram for the classification of severity of Covid-19 infection.

Figure 2

Diagram of risk factors for developing severe Covid-19 infection. COPD, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.