Since the report of positive staff test results, we have completed a second round of PCR testing. We’re happy to report that we’ve received all NEGATIVE test results on ALL RESIDENTS so far. We still have two resident test results pending.

The second testing method we have used is called PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) testing and it is highly accurate.

We have also received PCR test results back on all staff and there are no new cases of COVID to report. Additionally, of the first two staff that tested positive, one staff member tested negative and one tested positive.

This means that we have ONE known positive case and that staff member is quarantined at home.

As a precaution, all staff and residents with known exposure to this individual are quarantining safely in their homes and rooms.

We will continue testing weekly and report any new test results or other pertinent information regarding this outbreak

As always, if you have any questions or concerns feel free to call at 360-225-9443 and ask for the following staff:

Stephanie Smith – Infection Preventionist/Staff Development Coordinator

Jennifer Lennox- Director of Nursing

Justin Settlemier-Administrator

We know how stressful this is and we will continue to do our best to keep you informed of any new cases and making sure all social distancing and PPE use is strictly being followed.

Sincerely,

Justin Settlemier, NHA

It has been our responsibility to test all staff weekly and during our most recent testing cycle we’ve had two staff members whose results indicate positive Covid-19 results.

It is our primary goal to keep all residents and staff safe during this outbreak.

Our goal is to minimize any transfer of the disease in the building and we have taken steps to ensure personal safety including isolation precaution, testing of all residents, use of PPE, and communication with all families and attending physicians for any new symptoms and protocol monitoring.

This will disrupt our normal process of admitting new patients and family visitation to the building and resident’s phased reopening abilities for at least two weeks.

All staff members that have tested positive have been quarantined in their homes until test results are negative and they are not presenting any symptoms, in which case they can return to work.

Positive cases are being reported to local and state agencies and those affected are quarantined until it’s determined that their test results are negative and no symptoms are present.

It is our goal to make sure this outbreak is as limited as possible and that all residents and staff remain fully protected against the spread of Covid-19.

Window visits with closed windows and skype/zoom/facetime calls are still appropriate and our staff will assist with these using proper sanitization, PPE, and social distancing techniques.

If you have any questions or concerns feel free to call at 360-225-9443 and ask for the following staff:

Stephanie Smith – Infection Preventionist/Staff Development Coordinator

Jennifer Lennox- Director of Nursing

Justin Settlemier-Administrator

For additional resources, please visit cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html

It’s normal to feel anxious about these cases, but we are prepared and ready to make sure all necessary steps are being taken and safety is the highest priority.

Sincerely,

Justin Settlemier, NHA