Name of the Procedure:

Injection, bamlanivimab and etesevimab, 2100 mg (HCPCS Q0245)

Summary

This procedure involves administering a combination of bamlanivimab and etesevimab, monoclonal antibodies used to treat COVID-19, by injection.

Purpose

This injection aims to treat mild to moderate COVID-19 in patients at high risk for progressing to severe illness, hospitalization, or death. The goal is to reduce the viral load in the patient's body and mitigate symptoms.

Indications

• Positive test for SARS-CoV-2
• Mild to moderate COVID-19 symptoms
• High risk for severe COVID-19 due to underlying health conditions such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, or compromised immune systems

Preparation

• No specific fasting requirements
• Inform the healthcare provider of any medications you are currently taking
• Report any known allergies, particularly to monoclonal antibodies
• COVID-19 diagnostic test confirmation required before the injection

Procedure Description

1. The patient arrives at the healthcare facility.
2. A healthcare professional will confirm the COVID-19 diagnosis and assess eligibility.
3. The bamlanivimab and etesevimab combination is prepared.
4. The injection is administered over a period of time, typically through an intravenous (IV) line.
5. The patient is monitored for any adverse reactions during and after the injection, typically for at least an hour.

Tools: IV infusion setup, monitoring equipment. Anesthesia: Not applicable.

Duration

The entire procedure, including preparation and monitoring, typically takes around 2-3 hours.

Setting

The injection is usually performed in an outpatient setting such as a hospital, specialized infusion center, or a dedicated COVID-19 treatment clinic.

Personnel

• Registered Nurse (RN) or healthcare professional to administer the injection
• Physician or supervising healthcare provider
• Monitoring staff for post-injection observation

Risks and Complications

• Common: Mild injection site reactions, headache, nausea
• Rare: Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), infusion-related reactions
• Management: Immediate medical intervention for any severe reactions

Benefits

• Expected to reduce the severity of COVID-19 symptoms
• Can lower the risk of hospitalization and severe outcomes
• Benefits are typically noticed within a few days of administration

Recovery

• Patients are advised to rest and maintain hydration.
• Follow-up with the healthcare provider as instructed.
• Monitor for any persistent or worsening symptoms.
• No significant activity restrictions unless advised by a healthcare provider.

Alternatives

• Other monoclonal antibody therapies
• Antiviral medications
• Supportive care specific to symptom management
• Each alternative varies in effectiveness, availability, and potential side effects.

Patient Experience

• The patient might feel slight discomfort or pain at the injection site.
• Post-injection monitoring ensures any adverse reactions are swiftly managed.
• Post-procedure, patients generally feel well enough to return home the same day.
• Pain management typically involves over-the-counter pain relievers, if necessary.