NEW RESIDENTS
We continue to welcome new residents to our homes. We are following robust screening measures for potential carriers of the virus, this includes testing residents prior to their move-in.
In line with the most recent government’s announcement, residents moving into a care home no longer need to complete an isolation period, providing they take a PCR test within the 72 hours before admission (or a lateral flow test if they have tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 90 days) and a lateral flow test on the day of admission (day 0).
If either of the tests is positive, or indeed the place where they are moving-in from has an active outbreak, they will be required to self-isolate in their own room.
Where an isolation period is necessary, residents will benefit from a personalised 10-day settling-in period wellbeing program, allowing the team to explore their likes and dislikes, including the types of food they enjoy and the activities they like to spend their time doing.
Contrary to previous guidance, residents in isolation will now be able to come out of their room for some time outside (i.e garden), providing they wear a face mask in communal grounds and take the shortest route between their room and the outdoor space. Residents will also be able to receive one frequent visitor during this time and even, if there is an outbreak in the home.
Our team members continue to be vigilant for any known signs of the virus, and screen residents twice daily for variations in body temperature and blood oxygen saturation levels which are early signs of an infection. We have established regular access to GP services and other clinicians.
This has been one of the most difficult times for all of us, but we must continue to follow the guidance available to reduce onward transmission of COVID-19, and we thank you for your understanding, support, and co-operation.
