With the holiday season upon us, long term care (LTC) facilities and communities across the country will experience increased resident and family visitation, social engagement, and resident activities. This is an important time for residents to connect with their families and loved ones. However, it is also a challenging time for LTC providers as they strive to keep residents safe from respiratory viruses commonly spread during the winter months.
Here are a few simple steps LTC providers can take to prepare for increased holiday visitation:
1.) Communicate Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Practices to Visitors
LTC providers should communicate active infection prevention and control practices to visitors. For example, if the transmission of COVID-19 is high in the community or if the facility/community is experiencing an outbreak, they may implement source control masking. Policies like these should be communicated through posters, newsletters, and other forms of communication. Whenever possible, explain the rationale behind these policies to visitors to improve adherence.
2.) Ensure Adequate Resources
LTC providers should ensure access to supplies needed to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses and respond effectively to an outbreak. This includes:
- Alcohol-based hand sanitizer (ABHS) and source control masks (for use by residents, staff, and visitors)
- Access to rapid COVID-19 and influenza testing
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gowns and gloves, in case of an outbreak
3.) Monitor and Mask
LTC providers should use the CDC respiratory virus tracking website to monitor respiratory virus transmission in their local area. When transmission levels are high, LTC providers may consider implementing mask guidance for staff, residents, and guests. Note that respiratory viruses are often most contagious just before symptoms appear, underscoring the importance of masking when local transmission rates are elevated.
The CDC’s Project Firstline has developed two poster options (option 1 and option 2) that facilities can use to promote mask usage within the facility.
4.) Follow CDC Guidance to Monitor and Prevent Spread
LTC providers should actively watch for new cases to identify additional ill residents or health care personnel (HCP) through symptom screening and evaluating potential exposures. For SARS-CoV-2 infections, testing exposed individuals is recommended, even if they are asymptomatic.
If a respiratory infection is identified in a resident or HCP, facilities should refer to CDC guidance for specific infection control practices based on the respiratory virus:
5.) Remind residents and staff that vaccination is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk from respiratory viruses. Ensure that new admissions since your last vaccine clinic are offered vaccinations. All four vaccines—pneumonia, influenza, RSV, and COVID-19—are highly beneficial for residents.
For more information on infection prevention and control practices, visit AHCA/NCAL’s GetVaccinated.us and HHS’s Risk Less. Do More. campaign pages.
