Diagnosis of COVID-19
- Bronchoscopy should play a limited role 9-11
- Tracheal aspirate or mini-bronchoalveolar lavage should be attempted
before bronchoscopy is used9
- Use only if upper respiratory samples are negative and findings would
significantly change management
- Example: immunocompromised patient where pneumocystic jirovecii
infection must be ruled out
- Bronchoscopy sample for testing: 2-3 mL of specimen should be
collected into a sterile, leak proof container 9-11
- Turning off suction after obtaining sample but before disconnecting
sample from the device is advised9-11