Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid–19): a preventive approach for healthcare professionals

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this work as revealed through a recent literature review is to present the clinical characteristics of the disease caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19), the known transmission routes, address how health professionals can identify suspected cases, and mainly, how to present preventive measures to control and minimize infection. Materials and methods: The bibliographic search in databases such as Scielo, Medline, Ministry of Healthl and Fiocruz, among others, from March 28-30, 2020, was conducted to collect research data. Inclusion criteria consisted of articles in their complete and free version, in Portuguese as well as English language. Results: The coronavirus infection presents symptoms such as fever, cough, sneezing and phlegm although some cases are considered mild. The main routes of transmission are direct and by contact. In order to identify suspicious cases, patients' body temperature must be measured. Health professionals must frequently wash their hands before and after treatment and use personal protective equipment. Conclusion: At times like this when society is experiencing pandemic disease outbreaks, new challenges arise for health professionals and others who work in areas at risk of contacting the disease.