%0 Journal Article
%T Recommendations for ventilation of remodeled negative-pressure isolation wards for COVID-19 patients: A comparison of international guidelines.
%A Chen CY
%A Chen PH
%A Chen JK
%A Su TC
%J J Formos Med Assoc
%V 122
%N 2
%D Feb 2023
%M 36476674
%F 3.871
%R 10.1016/j.jfma.2022.11.013
%X This mini-review provides the practice guideline recommendations for ventilation of remodeled negative-pressure isolation wards for COVID-19 Patients. Remodeled "quasi-negative-pressure" isolation wards had been proved a feasible, inexpensive, safe, and effective measure to contain nosocomial outbreaks. We should first determine the minimum required ventilation volume of an isolation ward based on the severity of COVID-19 patients. Mechanical ventilation remains the mainstay for achieving the requirement, while the assistance of recirculation is also helpful. Beyond adequate ventilation volume, the "clean to less-clean" directional airflow remains the golden rule for the solution of indoor ventilation. The virus-laden exhaust should be treated with HEPA/UV device or be kept away from living organisms, buildings, and air inlets.