Iranian National guideline on Endoscopy during COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This guideline was developed to assure the highest level of protection against COVID-19 for both patients and health care providers in endoscopy departments while providing high quality and timely gastroenterology care during the current COVID-19 pandemic. We electronically searched the databases of PubMed, Google Scholar, and MedRxiv up to April 10, 2020. Then, a questionnaire was designed based on available documents and international recommendations. Three Delphi rounds were conducted via online forms. Eighteen statements were developed on risk stratification of patients and procedures and recommendations for performing necessary procedures while safeguarding patients, nurses, physicians and other service providers with appropriate use of personal protection equipment, sanitizing of environments and redesigning the endoscopy suits. Considering the dynamic of COVID-19 pandemic in the world and Iran, this guideline will be updated online as needed.