Rapid COVID test supply limited for now; extra precautions to limit use needed

Over the next 4-6 weeks, VUMC’s supply of the ID Now COVID-19 rapid test will be limited to the weekly allotment that we receive from the state. Our usage of this test for rapid preprocedural testing equals that of our weekly allotment. For this reason, we need to take extra precautions to limit usage of the rapid preprocedural tests until that time when test supply is expanded.

• Procedural and surgical clinics should focus extra efforts on obtaining advance testing of patients prior to procedures.
• Inpatients who previously tested negative for COVID-19 in the past 14 days during the same admission should not have repeat testing prior to a procedure or surgery (unless they become symptomatic).

In the event that requests for COVID-19 rapid preprocedural testing exceed test availability, rapid testing may be reprioritized based on risk of COVID-19 transmission and risk to the patient. Procedures which do not meet criteria for use of limited COVID-19 rapid testing supplies may need to be rescheduled or proceed with appropriate PPE and precautions. Based on current estimates, this is unlikely to represent more than a few cases per week over the next 4-6 weeks. Questions on the day of procedure should be directed to the attending proceduralist and anesthesiologist in charge.