Management of cases of COVID-19 infection with acute respiratory failure: a narrative review

Abstract

Corona viruses are enveloped, positive-sense, single-stranded large RNA viruses that affect humans and many animals. About 5% of COVID-19 patients need ICU admission due to ARDS, with a case fatality rate varying from 30% to 60%. Some patients need help other than supplementary oxygen, such as non-invasive ventilation or intubation. Before deciding the appropriate respiratory support for acute respiratory failure patients, concerns regarding the dangers of various treatments should be considered. During the treatment of COVID-19 patients, all respiratory therapies face a risk of aerosol-generating procedures. When treating COVID-19 patients, the priority and consideration should be personal safety devices and environmental control/engineering.