3.1 Establishing a triage area in the fever clinic for tumor patients Our hospitals has effectively separated tumor patients with suspected NCP from tumor patients with fever of unknown origin, promoted the use of masks by anyone visiting the hospital and enhanced community respiratory protection awareness through WeChat, official accounts, official websites and other online media.
3.2 Implementing the three-level triage system in the emergency department and clinics
First-level triage : The clinics and emergency department were in charge of triage, which was completely separated from the general counseling station. The essential materials (surgical masks, handheld thermometers, hand sanitizer, etc.) were prepared at the triage sites, and the basic information for the triaged patients (basic information, epidemiological history) was recorded. The epidemiological history, such as the travel history to the epidemic areas or close contact with patients with suspected NCP, was inquired, and the body temperature was measured. Once patients with fever or patients with an epidemiological history were identified, patients and any accompanying persons were immediately given and guided to wear surgical masks. The patient was transferred to the fever clinic by the triage nurse.
Second-level triage : When treating patients, the medical personnel in each diagnostic area of the clinics re-checked the patients and their families regarding their epidemiological history, such as travel history to epidemic areas or close contact with patients with suspected NCP, and recorded vital signs, such as body temperature, pulse, respiration, etc.
Third-level triage : The clinic and emergency physicians asked patients detailed questions regarding fever and cough and obtained further epidemiological history information and asked the patients to sign the ”Integrity Commitment regarding the Epidemiological History with Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia”.
3.3 Actively control the frequency of patient visits and reduce population aggregation and population flow The risks and recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with head and neck tumors during the prevention and control of the NCP epidemic were announced through multiple channels, such as the hospital’s official account and official website and various WeChat groups for continuing nursing care. An appointment system was implemented to limit outpatient numbers and reduce outpatient visits. Additionally, online specialist consultations were set up, and an online platform was used to establish an integrative medical and healthcare team for online consultation.