Case report of rescue of a patient with COVID-19 and shock after holmium laser lithotripsy

Lithotripsy is the primary form of treatment for ureteral calculus. According to clinical data, ureteroscopic lithotripsy (URSL) is characterized by better efficacy, a lower risk of complications, and a quicker postoperative recovery, when compared with open surgery. However, elderly patients often have a variety of chronic diseases that can directly or indirectly influence intraoperative care and postoperative recovery. It is important that medical staff closely observe changes in the postoperative condition of patients and provide them with the best quality care. In order to control the progression of disease and reduce mortality rates, it is very important to promptly eliminate the cause of shock, supplement blood volume, and correct cardiovascular disorders. During the pandemic caused by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), there has been a significant focus on management, predominantly operating rooms but also intensive care units (ICUs), to ensure that hospitals can provide prompt and effective diagnosis and treatment for every patient with COVID-19 and also prevent the spread of the virus and guarantee the safety of medical staff. During surgery on patients suspected of having COVID-19, it is important that specific personnel take control of the designated work and implement three strict levels of protection to prevent the transmission of the virus by air, droplets, and personal contact. Attention should be paid to the transfer of patients, the protection of medical staff, the management and control of negative pressure operation rooms, and postoperative treatment, thereby ensuring the safety of patients and medical staff. In this case report, we describe the nursing experience of rescuing a patient with COVID-19 who developed septic shock following flexible ureteroscopic holmium laser lithotripsy. The causes of septic shock were subsequently examined to inform a new protective strategy for rescuing patients with COVID-19 in the operating room and ICU, and to prevent and control cross-infection with the virus during surgery.