Simulated Respiratory Droplet Spread During a Slitlamp Examination

This video illustrates simulation of a patient cough with spread of respiratory droplets during an ophthalmologic slitlamp examination. A cardiopulmonary resuscitation manikin was placed at the chin rest of a slitlamp and a small latex balloon, compressed with oxygen and 1.25 mL of washable fluorescent dye, was run through tubing inside the oral cavity. The balloon was inflated until it burst at 5 pounds per 72 square inches, which has been previously reported as the force for a voluntary cough and laryngeal cough reflex. The simulation was performed under ultraviolet light conditions (light-emitting diode 395NM ultraviolet flashlight) to visualize emission of fluorescent small particles. Standard personal protective equipment and breath shields did not eliminate the simulated spread of droplets. Click the Related Article link for more complete information.