Vaccination against influenza (flu), COVID-19, and RSV reduces the likelihood of serious illness, hospitalization, or even death in long term care residents. LTC providers play an important role in protecting their residents by promoting vaccination against these viruses. And while influenza and COVID-19 vaccine are ideally administered in the fall, there is no wrong time to get vaccinated against these viruses.
This blog post serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting vaccination against respiratory viruses for newly admitted residents, offering actionable insights to strengthen your approach to infection prevention efforts.
Why is Vaccination Crucial for New Admissions?
Residents of nursing homes are at an increased risk of severe illness from respiratory infections due to factors such as age and underlying health conditions. Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, particularly when new residents may not yet have immunity to certain viruses circulating in the community or within the facility itself.
By prioritizing vaccination for new admissions, you not only protect the health of individual residents but also contribute to the overall safety and well-being of your facility.
Best Practices for Promoting Vaccination in New Admissions:
- Incorporate Vaccination into Admission Protocols
When new residents are admitted, ensure that vaccination is part of the standard intake procedure. This means reviewing their vaccination history, checking for any necessary vaccines, and administering them as soon as possible.
- Educate Residents and Families
Many families may not fully understand the importance of vaccinations, especially when it comes to respiratory viruses. Provide clear and concise information about the benefits of vaccination and how it protects not only the individual but the entire community within your nursing home. Check out the AHCA/NCAL #GetVaccinated website for resources to support these conversations.
- Ensure Accessibility
Make the vaccination process as easy as possible. This could involve offering vaccines on-site or coordinating with local health providers for timely administration.
- Document and Follow-Up
Keep accurate records of vaccinations administered and follow up with residents who may have missed their vaccines at the time of admission. Regularly review resident records to ensure they stay up-to-date on necessary immunizations.
- Promote a Culture of Prevention
Foster an environment where vaccination and disease prevention are seen as routine, essential parts of resident care. This will not only increase vaccination rates but also contribute to a culture of health and well-being within your facility.
Conclusion: A Commitment to Safety
Promoting vaccination for new admissions is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses in your nursing home. This not only protects their health but also safeguards the larger community of residents and staff. By making vaccination a top priority during the admission process, you’re taking a crucial step in the fight against respiratory illnesses and ensuring your facility remains a safe haven for all who call it home.