While the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) remains a threat, it’s important for you to know that we’re working closely with the County Public Health Department, infectious disease experts, and other medical professionals to maintain the safety of our residents and our staff. We’re reacting quickly as this situation evolves.
We care deeply about our residents and staff. Here are some steps we’ve taken to promote their safety:
1. We have restricted all non-essential visitors from the facility. ‘Essential’ visitors are those whose visits are critical, such as those whose loved one is on hospice and may be passing away imminently. Visits for general well-being are not considered ‘essential’ in this sense. We realize this stricture is difficult, particularly for people who don’t feel sick and want to visit; and we decided this with heavy hearts. But it’s universally recommended by governmental and healthcare authorities, and it will save lives. Restricting visitors means keeping your loved one much safer from this deadly virus. Thank you for understanding. Although in person visits are restricted, the facility administration will accommodate other methods of visiting such as phone, face timing, skyping. etc…
2. The few essential visitors that enter the facility are required to pass a temperature and symptom screen at the facility entrance.
3. Facility residents are being assessed every shift for fever and other symptoms of the virus. Changes are communicated to the attending physician for direction.
4. We have contracted with a laboratory that helps with the processing of lab results for COVID-19.
5. We are restricting laundry and other non-essential items from residents’ or loved ones’ homes.
6. We have stopped all non-essential group meetings in the facility. The essential meetings have social spacing of six feet.
7. Staff are required to pass a temperature and symptom screening prior to entering work area.
8. If a staff member should show symptoms of a respiratory infection or fever, they will be asked to leave immediately and self-isolate.
9. All resident group activities have been stopped, and in-room activities are being provided by the Activities staff.
10. Information is being communicated to the facility staff regarding the COVID-19 virus and the steps they need to take to prevent the spread to their residents and other staff members.
11. Facility administration has reviewed staffing patterns to limit the areas of the facility staff have access to.
12. Hand hygiene observations are being conducted by facility administration to ensure that staff are performing hand hygiene at appropriate times to prevent the transmission of any infections.
13. Environmental cleaning observations are being conducted by facility administration to prevent environmental transmission of the organism.
We want our residents’ families, friends, and significant others, and those of our staff, to remain safe. Older adults and those with underlying chronic medical conditions seem to be at higher risk, according to the CDC. As the illness is thought to spread from person to person, experts advise washing hands, avoiding close contact with others, and cleaning and disinfecting surfaces. Wear a mask if you are sick or caring for someone who is.
Here some links to resources you’ll find valuable.
CDC: Protect yourself and others
WHO: Advice for the public
CDC: If you are at higher risk
WHO: How and when to use masks