Discharge processes
We initiated a Swab And Send Home (SASH) protocol for patients with fever or acute respiratory symptoms who did not have active gynaecological issues requiring admission. Prior to its implementation, all patients requiring COVID-19 swab testing were admitted. The SASH protocol eliminated the need for admission of these stable patients. Instead, these patients are issued a five-day hospitalisation leave, during which they have to remain isolated at home by law. They are given clear discharge advice defining the precautionary measures they should take as advised by the MOH and to return for further medical attention should their condition worsen. These swab results are communicated to the patients by the isolation team in a timely fashion.
A porter collects the discharge medications from the pharmacy on behalf of these patients to further minimise social contact.