Mann Law Firm - August 2020

Mann Law Firm - August 2020

www.MannInjuryLaw.com

478-742-3381

AUGUST 2020

Is Your Family Member Safe? What to Look for in a Loved One’s Care Facility

At the time I’m writing this, many people are still quarantining and worrying about their older loved ones. Since older individuals and those with compromised immune systems are more susceptible to COVID-19, it’s very critical they receive appropriate care. If you’ve read our previous newsletters, you know that sometimes these care facilities can be negligent. To ensure your family members are safe, make sure their care facility is following these basic COVID-19 prevention practices. Face Mask Policy Though it depends on the severity and spread of COVID-19 cases in their specific area, most

residents should be wearing face masks when possible. This practice is especially

recommended when residents leave their rooms or enter into a community space. However, those with difficulty breathing or who need breathing support may disregard this to ensure they get adequate oxygen. Additionally, visitors to the facility should be wearing cloth face masks. Visitor Restrictions It’s a great sign if the care center managers are sending emails reminding visitors to stay home if they’re feeling ill. This shows they’re being proactive in keeping residents healthy. Facility staff should be encouraging the patient’s friends and family members to socialize in alternative, safer ways like phone calls or video chat. What’s more, proactive care centers may ask their regular visitors who start to experience flu-like symptoms to contact the center staff immediately. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends that care facilities restrict the number of visitors, the hours they visit, and the specific areas they occupy. Testing and Screening Plan The best nursing homes have a testing system in place for all residents and nurses. Check to ensure the facility your loved one lives in

spaces. Unless staff and patients are wearing gloves and regularly washing their hands, hand sanitizer is a good alternative to ensure clean hands. Additionally, facility staff should ensure tissues and trash cans are readily available in every room. Finally, employees and residents should have access to and wear personal protective equipment, such as gloves and face masks. Staff should monitor and replenish the supply of personal protective equipment and sanitation items daily. If your loved one falls ill at a care facility without adequate procedures in place, contact me as soon as possible. We will work with you to ensure your family member is safe and adequately taken care of.

has a testing process and that it aligns with state and federal regulations. Beyond that, the testing process should address the symptoms of COVID-19, and staff should have a strategy to work with residents who decline or are unable to be tested. Additionally, the plan should address potential issues of test accessibility and capacity for staff and residents. Care facilities should also be screening all nursing and health care personnel before they start their shift. Right now, it’s imperative to have personnel regularly monitor themselves for fevers and symptoms related to COVID-19. Adequate Supplies Facilities following best practices for COVID-19 prevention have put hand sanitizer inside and outside every room and in all communal areas, including dining halls, gyms, and entertainment

-David Mann

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