Abstract: Objective To explore the effect of negative-pressure room of emergency department (ED) in the treatment of critically ill patients suspected with COVID-19 and summarize the experience. Methods The treatment of critical ill patients suspected with COVID-19 was standardized through the following measures including normalizing the operation standard, operation process and equipment allocation standard of negative-pressure room in ED and standardizing the training, protection, disinfection as well as isolation of ED staff with Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). Results As of March 25th, 2020, 13 critical ill patients suspected with COVID-19 had been successfully rescued in negative-pressure room of ED in our hospital, among which 2 cases were confirmed as COVID-19 and no nosocomial cross-infection has occurred. Conclusion Negative-pressure room in EDs of general hospitals helps to complete emergency treatment of suspected patients as well ensure the safety of medical staff in designated hospitals for COVID-19, which effectively cut off the transmission path to protect medical staff and patients, and prevent nosocomial cross-infection.

Key words: COVID-19, critical ill, emergency negative -pressure room, management