Update from Administrator – December 11, 2020
Dear Families,
I would like to let you know that we did have a resident test positive for COVID-19 this morning. From reviewing other test results and from doing contact tracing, we believe the resident must have come in contact with the virus outside of this building when they were out on a medically necessary doctor’s visit. The resident has been isolated per our COVID protocols and agreed to transfer to our sister facility that has been housing and caring for many positive COVID patients during this second surge.
We have no reason to think this is anymore than an isolated case. If you have any questions at all – please reach out to me.
We have a very important update to share with you today:
Vaccine Update
As you may have seen in the news, some exciting updates have taken place regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. Our pharmacy providers are working to schedule several dates to visit our center to hold “vaccine clinics” to administer the vaccine. To plan for this, we need consents from families to administer the vaccine to their loved ones. The consent process is similar to that of the yearly flu vaccine that we strongly recommend everyone receive.
We will soon have the consent forms out to you to fill-out and return (we may also call for verbal consent depending on the timeline). Unlike the flu vaccine which we order, administer, and maintain for a period of time in the center, the COVID-19 vaccine will be administered on a specific date(s) and only that date(s). The dates are out of our control and are being overseen by the Rhode Island Department Health and CVS.
If we do not have the signed consent form in advance, they may not administer the vaccine. Therefore, it is imperative that we receive the consent back ASAP in order to include your loved one in the order.
Given the nature of the pandemic thus far, we strongly recommend everyone participate. Below are a few links to websites with additional information on the vaccine that may answer your questions.
- AMDA: FAQs about the COVID-19 Vaccine for PALTC Staff, Patients, Residents and Family Members http://paltc.org/sites/default/files/QA%20about%20the%20COVID-19%20Vaccine%20for%20PALTC%20Patients%20Family%20Member%20and%20Staff%20_%2012_1_20%20FINAL.pdf
- CDC: About COVID-19 vaccines. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/about-vaccines.html
- https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/covid-conversations/answering-questions.html
- CDC: Understanding the Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care Program and Frequently Asked Questions. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/long-term-care/pharmacy-partnerships.html
If you have any questions regarding the COVID-19 Vaccine – please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
Visitation
Per the Rhode Island Department of Health visitation is still paused in Nursing Homes.
“Alternative” Visits
Please know that “alternative” visitations will continue. Remember that we do offer iPads for our residents to use for video visits, phone calls, etc. to ensure that you and your loved ones remain in contact, as best as you can during these very uncertain times.
We are reminding our staff to not only practice safeguards against COVID in our center, but to be vigilant outside of our center and share these practices with their friends and loved ones. We still ask you to do your part while in your community and PLEASE wear your mask, wash your hands, and watch your distance. And please promote these very simple precautions with your extended family and friends.
As always, thank you for your patience and please stay safe and healthy!
Thank you and please stay safe and healthy!
Nicholas Lutzel
Administrator