Dear Lighthouse Families, Residents, and Caregiving Team:
First, everyone at Lighthouse is healthy. No flu outbreak, no colds, knock on wood. But the situation with COVID-19 is provoking a lot of worry in everyone, and several family members are asking me what we think. Per the CDCD site, https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/healthcare-facilities/prevent-spread-in-long-term-care-facilities.html we have put together a policy/procedure based on the information that is currently available. We subscribe for regular updates from the CDC as well as the CDPHE. You can use the above CDC link to help answer any questions.. If something major changes, then so will our policy and procedure. For now here’s what it is.
1. We would like to minimize all visits that are unnecessary to our homes. For the near future or until further notice, if you do not have to come to Lighthouse please don’t. Our entire Leadership team is available for updates on our residents. Reach out to us at any time.
2. If you or someone you live with is sick, GO AWAY. Please don’t come into the home.
3. Anyone who must visit, including all home health, hospice and medical personnel should come straight in and wash their hands with soap and water to the elbows.
4. Outside personnel (Nurse aides, nurses, and therapists) are going to be provided with masks to wear while they are in the home. Most of the outside personnel visit other facilities too, and we worry the most about them bringing infection into our home through their hands or face.
5. Lighthouse personnel will receive extra orientation on hand-washing and infection control, and we will do surface wipe-downs using bleach cleaner several times a day.
6. Residents will be observed and monitored for any symptoms of respiratory infection by Lighthouse and hospice personnel. You should be watchful and let us know if your loved one looks like they’re developing new sneezing, congestion, coughing, or malaise.
7. If a resident or staff member at Lighthouse shows any of the above symptoms, they’ll be immediately referred for appropriate evaluation and treatment. Residents with symptoms will be quarantined in their rooms until they are actually evaluated. Staff members with symptoms will not be permitted to work until they receive medical clearance.
8. If anyone tests positive for COVID-19, all family and visitors will be notified within 24 hours.
Like I said, as the CDC and CDPHE put out new recommendations, we will follow suit.
Visit this page for any updates.
Liz Littleton