We have no cases of COVID-19 in residents or staff at either facility.
We will be providing a weekly update of current situation from today and more frequently if required. If, in the unfortunate event we were to have a positive case, the primary contact person for all residents in both facilities will be advised by our staff by telephone and there will also be an email to families.
Staff screening – we continue to screen staff at the beginning of each shift, including temperature checks and monitoring by the Registered Nurse on duty. Staff have been diligent in reporting if they are unwell and not coming to work. If a staff member, or close contact of a staff member is tested, the staff member does not come to work until we have seen evidence of a negative test result for them or the close contact.
Resident screening – residents have their temperature checked on a daily basis and if a resident presents as being mildly unwell with flu or COVID-19 like symptoms they are isolated and referred to their GP. Whilst in isolation full PPE is worn by attending staff. As soon as the resident is reviewed by the GP or, if tested for COVID-19 and has a negative result. If a resident presented as moderately or severely unwell we would request transfer to hospital in consultation with their GP and next of kin.
PPE – All staff are wearing masks whilst on duty in both facilities. We have adequate stocks of PPE and have supply from our contracted suppliers and other contacts. We have also accessed the Victorian Government stockpile to supply masks.
Cleaning – our contracted cleaning services are undertaking increased cleaning daily. This includes touch point cleaning of surfaces in high traffic areas 4 times per day as well as routine cleaning.
Staff education – staff have received education in infection prevention and control by numerous methods, including on-line training, face:face training and toolbox session. Areas covered, but not limited to, include hand hygiene, use of PPE (donning and doffing), infection control prevention, cleaning and touch point cleaning
Workforce – we have a solid base of casual staff and our part-time staff are picking up extra shifts as required. We also have capacity for overtime for staff if required. We have not used agency care staff for approximately 2 years, something we are very proud of. We have higher than industry standards of staffing in all departments at CaSPA Care. This is due to the household model of care and commitment to ensure that we minimise the movement of staff around the facility at Emerald Hill and South Port. There may be times when staff do move between locations and floors, however we believe that having our own staff, rather than agency staff, ensures greater continuity of care for our residents.
Visitors – Visits for specific cases such as end of life care, reducing a loved one’s stress or confusion or for compassionate reasons will continue. Please contact Maricar Carew or me to discuss requests for visits.
Contact with residents – Please let us know if you would like to use FaceTime, WhatsApp or other communication apps to engage with your loved one. We will forward requests to Vicki Fraser (Lifestyle Manager) and she will be in touch to discuss.
Gate visits (Emerald Hill) and Garden Visits (South Port) – we would like to remind families when using these options to wear a face covering or mask and to maintain social distancing. We have been advised there have been contact visits and/or passing of items across the gate/fence between visitors and residents. If you have an item you for your family member please leave it with reception staff. Staff will ensure it is delivered to the resident.
Lionshare Café – is open for residents and staff but closed to the public.
Once again thank you for your continued support as we are all doing our best to keep everyone safe. Please contact us if you have any questions or need clarification.