Abstract
Transport of critically ill patients with compromised vital functions includes high risks and challenges for both emergency care professionals and patients. Transport of these critically ill patients should be performed in compliance with the protocols developed in accordance with evidence-based medical recommendations. Pre-hospital emergency health workers perform many different types of transport, and the transfer of patients with contagious diseases requires a special professional approach. Nowadays, COVID-19 suspected/diagnosed patient transfers transmitted by droplets and/or contact have been one of the most common types of transport. The transfer of patients with a very high potential for transmission and fatal effects, such as COVID-19, should be carried out in accordance with the principles of “critical patient” transport. For the management of using resources in the most efficient way and to reduce risks to personnel accompanying the transport, accurate identification of suspected/diagnosed COVID-19 cases and clear transport plans between the parties involved in the transport of these patients are more important than ever. Providing personal protective equipment to the personnel during transport, disinfection, and decontamination of the ambulance is of great importance for the safety of pre-hospital emergency health personnel and other patients who are not infected. In this review, the basic principles and recommendations that should be followed for the safe delivery and transport of COVID-19 patients are emphasized.