Guerin Woods Weekly Update

Dear Guerin Woods Families & Friends:

 

Unless there is a need to perform outbreak testing or a change to any of our COVID-19 policies, you will only hear from me once weekly.  Nevertheless, please feel free to reach out to me or our Administrator, Lisa Baker, at any time; our cell numbers are communicated in each of my emails.

 

We do have a small change to our procedure regarding excursions.  When you reserve your Elders time (no less than 72 hours in advance) in Simply Book Me, you will be asked to clarify whether you are booking a visit or excursion.  It is very important that we know in advance anytime an elder intends to be off campus.  As a reminder, I have included immediately below all of the requirements regarding excursions, as well as those relating to visitation and requests for testing.

_________________

 

1.      Notification Requirement – Before any anticipated interaction with an Elder, Visitors must -- no fewer than 48 hours in advance -- notify Guerin Woods via Simply Book Me (https://guerinwoods.simplybook.me/v2/#book).  There are no restrictions on the frequency or length of visits, but Guerin Woods needs to ensure proper staffing and manage the total number of visitors in the Villas at any given time.  The Simply Book Me application will not restrict frequency or length of visitation, but is configured in 30-minute increments.  Accordingly, if you wish to visit from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., you will need to "book" the four 30-minute time slots between those times. 

 

Please note that Guerin Woods is permitted to manage the total number of visitors in a Villa at any time.  Accordingly, we may cancel or delay a scheduled visit if an excessive number of visitors book simultaneous appointments. 

 

With regard to excursions and end-of-life visitation, requirements are slightly different.

 

a.      Excursions: Any family member or friend who anticipates having direct contact with an Elder for purposes of escorting them on an excursion off campus (e.g., to a doctor's appointment) must no fewer than 72 hours in advance:

 

i.     "Block" the Elder's schedule via Simply Book Me (https://guerinwoods.simplybook.me/v2/#book) application and

 

ii.    Send an email to kbell@pssmsi.org and cwild@pssmsi.org indicating (A) the excursion destination; (B) the infection prevention practices in place at that destination; (C) the anticipated duration of the excursion; (D) the identity and contact details (email and cell phone number) of the Elder's escort(s), i.e., the person(s) who will be responsible for picking up and dropping off the Elder; and (E) by description any others with whom the Elder will come in contact during the excursion.

 

b.      End-of-Life Visitation: Guerin Woods does not require the use of its scheduling application for end-of-life visitation.  Instead, family members should contact Chelsea Wild, Social Services Director (812-951-9088; cwild@pssmsi.org), Bonnie Johnston, Director of Nursing (502-396-0158; bjohnston@pssmsi.org), or Lisa Baker, Administrator (812-399-9046; lbaker@pssmsi.org) to make appropriate arrangements.

 

2.      Testing – Visitor testing for COVID-19 is not required, but Guerin Woods strongly advises visitors to test no less than weekly to minimize the risk to Elders and their caregivers.  Any visitor who wishes to be tested on Guerin Woods campus may do so electronically by scheduling an appointment with the Simply Book Me application (https://guerinwoods.simplybook.me/v2/#book).

 

3.      Infection Prevention Requirements

 

a.      Masks: All visitors interacting with an Elder will be given a mask that must properly worn during the entirety of the scheduled visit or excursion.  Cloth masks are not sufficient because they provide far less protection to the Elder and Guerin Woods staff.

 

b.      Social Distancing: Within the confines of an Elder's room, the CDC has now indicated that "if [an Elder] is fully vaccinated, they can choose to have close contact (including touch) with their visitor while [i] wearing a well-fitted face mask and [ii] performing hand-hygiene before and after."  However, outside the confines of an Elder's room and with regard to all staff and other Elders, visitors must maintain social distancing of six feet or more at all times. 

 

c.       Clean Hands: Frequently, and no less than immediately before and after each Elder interaction, both visitors and the Elder must properly use alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water to clean their hands.  Alcohol-based hand rub is readily available in each of the Villas.  Training materials and signage is available in all of the Villas, but if visitors have any questions regarding proper hand cleaning, they should ask a staff member.

 

4.      Acknowledgement of Visitation Requirements & Health Survey – Prior to interacting with an Elder, all visitors must complete an Acknowledgment of Visitation Requirements & Health Survey form (Health Survey), which includes a temperature check.  These forms will available on the front porch of each Villa.  WE CANNOT ALLOW VISITATION IF A VISITOR'S SURVEY RESPONSES OR A VISITOR'S SYMPTOMS OR BODY TEMPERATURE INDICATE A RISK OF EXPOSURE.  Given the extreme risk associated with the lifting of visitation restrictions, Guerin Woods will be very strict in excluding visitors who have any signs or symptoms of illness.

 

5.      Schedule – Daily, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. (our pre-pandemic schedule).

 

6.      Location – In order to protect staff and other Elders, visitors must restrict their visits to their Elder's room.  After signing the Health Survey and at the direction of a staff member, visitors should walk directly to the Elder's room, avoiding all interaction with others Elders and minimizing interaction with staff.  Should a visitor wish to visit with an Elder in the garden area, they should notify staff.  If the garden is already occupied or Elders are in the common area near the garden door, a garden visit may be postponed or denied.  When visitors wish to leave, they must call for assistance and stay in their Elder's room until a staff member is available to direct their exit.

 

7.      Number of Visitors – Elders may have no more than two visitors at a time.

 

8.      Age Restrictions – Because all visitors must be able to comply with all infection prevention protocols, Guerin Woods strongly discourages any visitor under the age of 12.

 

_________________________

 

1. Guerin Woods COVID-19 Statistics

Total # of Elder Cases	New Elder Cases in Last 24 Hrs	Elder Deaths in Last 24 Hrs	Instances of 3 or More Elders/Staff w/ New Onset of Respiratory Symptoms w/in 72 hours of Each Other
15*	0	0	0

 *COVID-19 positive test dates: 8/5/20 (1); 10/14/20 (1); 10/21/20 (1); 10/23/20 (2); 10/29/20 (1); 11/16/20 (1; new admission from another facility); 11/19/20 (1); 12/11/20 (3); 12/15/20 (2); 12/18/20 (1); 12/20/20 (1).

2. Examples of Facility Infection Mitigation/Prevention/Planning Measures

Visitation restrictions

Staff Competency Reinforcement/Training: Infection Control; COVID-19; Proper PPE Use; Handwashing; Social Distancing, etc.

Daily staff reminders to self-monitor for fever and symptoms of COVID-19 and to stay home if unwell

Staff use of masks and eyewear in Villas

Increased cleaning frequency & use of COVID-19/EPA approved sanitizing solutions for equipment, frequently touched surfaces and common areas

Placement of alcohol-based hand sanitizer throughout the Villas and in elders' rooms

Placement of tissues and trash cans in elder's rooms and in common areas for respiratory hygiene, cough etiquette, and source control

Elder social distancing and use of masks (for those able) when in common areas

Transition to telephonic/video meetings whenever possible, e.g., Care Plan Meetings

Use of telehealth when appropriate

Creation and use of signage to remind elders and staff re PPE usage, cough etiquette, social distancing, handwashing

Creation of signage in anticipation of positive COVID-19 cases re proper use of PPE, precautions, etc.

Adoption of pharmacy policies & practices that ensure availability of all necessary medications

Pre-shift health assessment/screening of every staff member, including all CDC-defined COVID-19 symptoms

Assessment of elders for CDC-defined COVID-19 symptoms every shift

Cancellation of all non-essential medical appointments, e.g., routine eye exams

Acquisition of additional/excess supplies, e.g., ABHS, soap, paper towels, sanitizing solutions, PPE, oxygen concentrators

Acquisition of COVID-19 testing equipment/kits and frequent testing of staff, vendors, third-party providers, elders, and EFCs

Conversion of separate on-site facility to staff sleeping quarters, including procurement of beds, linens, etc.

Conversion of separate on-site facility to accommodate COVID-19 supplies, including preparation of individual kits for ease of use

Staging of COVID-19 materials in anticipation of providing immediate response

On-site CNA course, including but not limited to staff training, licensure, procurement of necessary course materials, etc., in anticipation of potential staffing shortages

Daily meetings among executive and senior clinical staff re newest state and federal COVID-19 regulations & guidance (and changes thereto), associated changes to policies/procedures, education/training, facility changes, etc.

Extensive contingency planning, including adoption of new policies & procedures (and frequent amendment of same as guidelines from federal and state public health authorities change)

Frequent coordination with local and state public health and emergency response authorities

Exclusion of COVID-19 positive and COVID-19 exposed employees in compliance with CDC guidelines

Isolation of elders who may have had an exposure per IDH and CDC guidelines

3.  Guerin Woods Contacts

Contact (Title)	Lisa Baker (Administrator)	Susan Gernert (President & CEO)
Cell Phone	812-399-9046	502-830-4336
Email	lbaker@pssmsi.org	sgernert@pssmsi.org

4. Elder Testing & Transfers: Guerin Woods is following the guidance and directives of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH), and Floyd County Health Department regarding Elder testing.  If an Elder were to test positive for COVID-19, the Elder would be transferred to a hospital or other appropriate facility.
5. General Information:  For more information about COVID-19, please refer to: https://www.coronavirus.in.gov/2400.htm; https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.  You can also address general questions about COVID-19 to the ISDH COVID-19 Call Center, available 24/7, at 877-826-0011.
6. Indiana Long-Term Care Ombudsman: The Ombudsman is NOT a representative of the facility, ISDH, or any other organization. However, we do want to provide accurate information to ensure families are comfortable that their loved ones are as safe as possible and are able to make informed decisions.

Physical Address	Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman 402 West Washington Street, Room W451 Post Office Box 7083, MS 27 Indianapolis, Indiana 46207-7083
Phone Number	800-622-4484 or 317-232-7134
Fax Number	317-972-3285
Email	LongTermCareOmbudsman@ombudsman.IN.gov
Website	https://www.in.gov/ombudsman/2347.htm

 Susan

 

Susan Gernert

President & CEO

 

 

Providence Self Sufficiency Ministries, Inc.

Guerin, Inc.

The Meadows of Guerin, Inc.

 

sgernert@pssmsi.org

502-830-4336 (cell)

 

8037 Unruh Drive

Georgetown, Indiana 47122

 

guerininc.org

 

 

Guerin Woods Daily Update - GOOD NEWS

 

Dear Guerin Woods Families & Friends:

 

All elders tested negative in our first round of testing!  A few elders must remain in isolation because of the date of their admission and vaccination status.  Otherwise, however, visitation may continue as previously announced.  The new rules are below.

 

1.                 Notification Requirement – Before any anticipated interaction with an Elder, Visitors must -- no fewer than 48 hours in advance -- notify Guerin Woods via Simply Book Me (https://guerinwoods.simplybook.me/v2/#book).  There are no restrictions on the frequency or length of visits, but Guerin Woods needs to ensure proper staffing and manage the total number of visitors in the Villas at any given time.  The Simply Book Me application will not restrict frequency or length of visitation, but is configured in 30-minute increments.  Accordingly, if you wish to visit from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., you will need to "book" the four 30-minute time slots between those times. 

 

Please note that Guerin Woods is permitted to manage the total number of visitors in a Villa at any time.  Accordingly, we may cancel or delay a scheduled visit if an excessive number of visitors book simultaneous appointments. 

 

With regard to excursions and end-of-life visitation, requirements are slightly different.

 

a.                                                  Excursions: Any family member or friend who anticipates having direct contact with an Elder for purposes of escorting them on an excursion off campus (e.g., to a doctor's appointment) must no fewer than 72 hours in advance:

 

i.                                                                 "Block" the Elder's schedule via Simply Book Me (https://guerinwoods.simplybook.me/v2/#book) application and

 

ii.                                                               Send an email to kbell@pssmsi.org and cwild@pssmsi.org indicating (A) the excursion destination; (B) the infection prevention practices in place at that destination; (C) the anticipated duration of the excursion; (D) the identity and contact details (email and cell phone number) of the Elder's escort(s), i.e., the person(s) who will be responsible for picking up and dropping off the Elder; and (E) by description any others with whom the Elder will come in contact during the excursion.

 

b.                                                 End-of-Life Visitation: Guerin Woods does not require the use of its scheduling application for end-of-life visitation.  Instead, family members should contact Chelsea Wild, Social Services Director (812-951-9088; cwild@pssmsi.org), Bonnie Johnston, Director of Nursing (502-396-0158; bjohnston@pssmsi.org), or Lisa Baker, Administrator (812-399-9046; lbaker@pssmsi.org) to make appropriate arrangements.

 

2.                 Testing – Visitor testing for COVID-19 is not required, but Guerin Woods strongly advises visitors to test no less than weekly to minimize the risk to Elders and their caregivers.  Any visitor who wishes to be tested on Guerin Woods campus may do so electronically by scheduling an appointment with the Simply Book Me application (https://guerinwoods.simplybook.me/v2/#book).

 

3.                 Infection Prevention Requirements

 

a.                                                  Masks: All visitors interacting with an Elder will be given a mask that must properly worn during the entirety of the scheduled visit or excursion.  Cloth masks are not sufficient because they provide far less protection to the Elder and Guerin Woods staff.

 

b.                                                 Social Distancing: Within the confines of an Elder's room, the CDC has now indicated that "if [an Elder] is fully vaccinated, they can choose to have close contact (including touch) with their visitor while [i] wearing a well-fitted face mask and [ii] performing hand-hygiene before and after."  However, outside the confines of an Elder's room and with regard to all staff and other Elders, visitors must maintain social distancing of six feet or more at all times. 

 

c.                                                  Clean Hands: Frequently, and no less than immediately before and after each Elder interaction, both visitors and the Elder must properly use alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water to clean their hands.  Alcohol-based hand rub is readily available in each of the Villas.  Training materials and signage is available in all of the Villas, but if visitors have any questions regarding proper hand cleaning, they should ask a staff member.

 

4.                 Acknowledgement of Visitation Requirements & Health Survey – Prior to interacting with an Elder, all visitors must complete an Acknowledgment of Visitation Requirements & Health Survey form (Health Survey), which includes a temperature check.  These forms will available on the front porch of each Villa.  WE CANNOT ALLOW VISITATION IF A VISITOR'S SURVEY RESPONSES OR A VISITOR'S SYMPTOMS OR BODY TEMPERATURE INDICATE A RISK OF EXPOSURE.  Given the extreme risk associated with the lifting of visitation restrictions, Guerin Woods will be very strict in excluding visitors who have any signs or symptoms of illness.

 

5.                 Schedule – Daily, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. (our pre-pandemic schedule).

 

6.                 Location – In order to protect staff and other Elders, visitors must restrict their visits to their Elder's room.  After signing the Health Survey and at the direction of a staff member, visitors should walk directly to the Elder's room, avoiding all interaction with others Elders and minimizing interaction with staff.  Should a visitor wish to visit with an Elder in the garden area, they should notify staff.  If the garden is already occupied or Elders are in the common area near the garden door, a garden visit may be postponed or denied.  When visitors wish to leave, they must call for assistance and stay in their Elder's room until a staff member is available to direct their exit.

 

7.                 Number of Visitors – Elders may have no more than two visitors at a time.

 

8.                 Age Restrictions – Because all visitors must be able to comply with all infection prevention protocols, Guerin Woods strongly discourages any visitor under the age of 12.

_________________________

 

1. Guerin Woods COVID-19 Statistics

Total # of Elder Cases	New Elder Cases in Last 24 Hrs	Elder Deaths in Last 24 Hrs	Instances of 3 or More Elders/Staff w/ New Onset of Respiratory Symptoms w/in 72 hours of Each Other
15*	0	0	0

 *COVID-19 positive test dates: 8/5/20 (1); 10/14/20 (1); 10/21/20 (1); 10/23/20 (2); 10/29/20 (1); 11/16/20 (1; new admission from another facility); 11/19/20 (1); 12/11/20 (3); 12/15/20 (2); 12/18/20 (1); 12/20/20 (1).

2. Examples of Facility Infection Mitigation/Prevention/Planning Measures

Visitation restrictions

Staff Competency Reinforcement/Training: Infection Control; COVID-19; Proper PPE Use; Handwashing; Social Distancing, etc.

Daily staff reminders to self-monitor for fever and symptoms of COVID-19 and to stay home if unwell

Staff use of masks and eyewear in Villas

Increased cleaning frequency & use of COVID-19/EPA approved sanitizing solutions for equipment, frequently touched surfaces and common areas

Placement of alcohol-based hand sanitizer throughout the Villas and in elders' rooms

Placement of tissues and trash cans in elder's rooms and in common areas for respiratory hygiene, cough etiquette, and source control

Elder social distancing and use of masks (for those able) when in common areas

Transition to telephonic/video meetings whenever possible, e.g., Care Plan Meetings

Use of telehealth when appropriate

Creation and use of signage to remind elders and staff re PPE usage, cough etiquette, social distancing, handwashing

Creation of signage in anticipation of positive COVID-19 cases re proper use of PPE, precautions, etc.

Adoption of pharmacy policies & practices that ensure availability of all necessary medications

Pre-shift health assessment/screening of every staff member, including all CDC-defined COVID-19 symptoms

Assessment of elders for CDC-defined COVID-19 symptoms every shift

Cancellation of all non-essential medical appointments, e.g., routine eye exams

Acquisition of additional/excess supplies, e.g., ABHS, soap, paper towels, sanitizing solutions, PPE, oxygen concentrators

Acquisition of COVID-19 testing equipment/kits and frequent testing of staff, vendors, third-party providers, elders, and EFCs

Conversion of separate on-site facility to staff sleeping quarters, including procurement of beds, linens, etc.

Conversion of separate on-site facility to accommodate COVID-19 supplies, including preparation of individual kits for ease of use

Staging of COVID-19 materials in anticipation of providing immediate response

On-site CNA course, including but not limited to staff training, licensure, procurement of necessary course materials, etc., in anticipation of potential staffing shortages

Daily meetings among executive and senior clinical staff re newest state and federal COVID-19 regulations & guidance (and changes thereto), associated changes to policies/procedures, education/training, facility changes, etc.

Extensive contingency planning, including adoption of new policies & procedures (and frequent amendment of same as guidelines from federal and state public health authorities change)

Frequent coordination with local and state public health and emergency response authorities

Exclusion of COVID-19 positive and COVID-19 exposed employees in compliance with CDC guidelines

Isolation of elders who may have had an exposure per IDH and CDC guidelines

3.  Guerin Woods Contacts

Contact (Title)	Lisa Baker (Administrator)	Susan Gernert (President & CEO)
Cell Phone	812-399-9046	502-830-4336
Email	lbaker@pssmsi.org	sgernert@pssmsi.org

4. Elder Testing & Transfers: Guerin Woods is following the guidance and directives of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH), and Floyd County Health Department regarding Elder testing.  If an Elder were to test positive for COVID-19, the Elder would be transferred to a hospital or other appropriate facility.
5. General Information:  For more information about COVID-19, please refer to: https://www.coronavirus.in.gov/2400.htm; https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.  You can also address general questions about COVID-19 to the ISDH COVID-19 Call Center, available 24/7, at 877-826-0011.
6. Indiana Long-Term Care Ombudsman: The Ombudsman is NOT a representative of the facility, ISDH, or any other organization. However, we do want to provide accurate information to ensure families are comfortable that their loved ones are as safe as possible and are able to make informed decisions.

Physical Address	Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman 402 West Washington Street, Room W451 Post Office Box 7083, MS 27 Indianapolis, Indiana 46207-7083
Phone Number	800-622-4484 or 317-232-7134
Fax Number	317-972-3285
Email	LongTermCareOmbudsman@ombudsman.IN.gov
Website	https://www.in.gov/ombudsman/2347.htm

 Susan

 

Susan Gernert

President & CEO

 

 

Providence Self Sufficiency Ministries, Inc.

Guerin, Inc.

The Meadows of Guerin, Inc.

 

sgernert@pssmsi.org

502-830-4336 (cell)

 

8037 Unruh Drive

Georgetown, Indiana 47122

 

guerininc.org

 

 

Guerin Woods Daily Update - VISITATION CANCELLED FOR AT LEAST THE NEXT 3 DAYS

 

Dear Guerin Woods Families & Friends:

 

We have had an exposure in the Villas, which requires us to test all Elders and do contact tracing.  All Villas are now YELLOW and no visitation (including EFC visitation) or excursions are permitted until further notice.  As soon as we have results, I will update you.  My hope is to provide greater clarity no later than Monday.

 

Our floor nurses and nursing assistants will not be able to answer any questions you may have regarding the status of our investigation or visitation/excursions.  They know no more than what I have included in this email.  I will be in constant contact with our senior management tonight and over the weekend, and as soon as we know something definitive I will immediately update everyone.  (Staff also receive my group emails.)  If you have any questions before then, please direct them to me.

 

Susan

 

 

1. Guerin Woods COVID-19 Statistics

Total # of Elder Cases	New Elder Cases in Last 24 Hrs	Elder Deaths in Last 24 Hrs	Instances of 3 or More Elders/Staff w/ New Onset of Respiratory Symptoms w/in 72 hours of Each Other
15*	0	0	0

 *COVID-19 positive test dates: 8/5/20 (1); 10/14/20 (1); 10/21/20 (1); 10/23/20 (2); 10/29/20 (1); 11/16/20 (1; new admission from another facility); 11/19/20 (1); 12/11/20 (3); 12/15/20 (2); 12/18/20 (1); 12/20/20 (1).

2. Examples of Facility Infection Mitigation/Prevention/Planning Measures

Visitation restrictions

Staff Competency Reinforcement/Training: Infection Control; COVID-19; Proper PPE Use; Handwashing; Social Distancing, etc.

Daily staff reminders to self-monitor for fever and symptoms of COVID-19 and to stay home if unwell

Staff use of masks and eyewear in Villas

Increased cleaning frequency & use of COVID-19/EPA approved sanitizing solutions for equipment, frequently touched surfaces and common areas

Placement of alcohol-based hand sanitizer throughout the Villas and in elders' rooms

Placement of tissues and trash cans in elder's rooms and in common areas for respiratory hygiene, cough etiquette, and source control

Elder social distancing and use of masks (for those able) when in common areas

Transition to telephonic/video meetings whenever possible, e.g., Care Plan Meetings

Use of telehealth when appropriate

Creation and use of signage to remind elders and staff re PPE usage, cough etiquette, social distancing, handwashing

Creation of signage in anticipation of positive COVID-19 cases re proper use of PPE, precautions, etc.

Adoption of pharmacy policies & practices that ensure availability of all necessary medications

Pre-shift health assessment/screening of every staff member, including all CDC-defined COVID-19 symptoms

Assessment of elders for CDC-defined COVID-19 symptoms every shift

Cancellation of all non-essential medical appointments, e.g., routine eye exams

Acquisition of additional/excess supplies, e.g., ABHS, soap, paper towels, sanitizing solutions, PPE, oxygen concentrators

Acquisition of COVID-19 testing equipment/kits and frequent testing of staff, vendors, third-party providers, elders, and EFCs

Conversion of separate on-site facility to staff sleeping quarters, including procurement of beds, linens, etc.

Conversion of separate on-site facility to accommodate COVID-19 supplies, including preparation of individual kits for ease of use

Staging of COVID-19 materials in anticipation of providing immediate response

On-site CNA course, including but not limited to staff training, licensure, procurement of necessary course materials, etc., in anticipation of potential staffing shortages

Daily meetings among executive and senior clinical staff re newest state and federal COVID-19 regulations & guidance (and changes thereto), associated changes to policies/procedures, education/training, facility changes, etc.

Extensive contingency planning, including adoption of new policies & procedures (and frequent amendment of same as guidelines from federal and state public health authorities change)

Frequent coordination with local and state public health and emergency response authorities

Exclusion of COVID-19 positive and COVID-19 exposed employees in compliance with CDC guidelines

Isolation of elders who may have had an exposure per IDH and CDC guidelines

3.  Guerin Woods Contacts

Contact (Title)	Lisa Baker (Administrator)	Susan Gernert (President & CEO)
Cell Phone	812-399-9046	502-830-4336
Email	lbaker@pssmsi.org	sgernert@pssmsi.org

4. Visitation & Excursions: Because of an outbreak, Elders are being tested and management is conducting contact tracing.  No visitation, including Essential Family Caregiver Visitation, or excursions are permitted until further notice.
5. Elder Testing & Transfers: Guerin Woods is following the guidance and directives of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH), and Floyd County Health Department regarding Elder testing.  If an Elder were to test positive for COVID-19, the Elder would be transferred to a hospital or other appropriate facility.
6. General Information:  For more information about COVID-19, please refer to: https://www.coronavirus.in.gov/2400.htm; https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.  You can also address general questions about COVID-19 to the ISDH COVID-19 Call Center, available 24/7, at 877-826-0011.
7. Indiana Long-Term Care Ombudsman: The Ombudsman is NOT a representative of the facility, ISDH, or any other organization. However, we do want to provide accurate information to ensure families are comfortable that their loved ones are as safe as possible and are able to make informed decisions.

Physical Address	Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman 402 West Washington Street, Room W451 Post Office Box 7083, MS 27 Indianapolis, Indiana 46207-7083
Phone Number	800-622-4484 or 317-232-7134
Fax Number	317-972-3285
Email	LongTermCareOmbudsman@ombudsman.IN.gov
Website	https://www.in.gov/ombudsman/2347.htm

 Susan

 

Susan Gernert

President & CEO

 

 

Providence Self Sufficiency Ministries, Inc.

Guerin, Inc.

The Meadows of Guerin, Inc.

 

sgernert@pssmsi.org

502-830-4336 (cell)

 

8037 Unruh Drive

Georgetown, Indiana 47122

 

guerininc.org

 

 

Guerin Woods Daily Update

Dear Guerin Woods Families & Friends:

 

For those who may not have seen it, I have included the entirety of yesterday's email update regarding visitation. 

 

Please be patient with our staff as we train and they become familiar with all of these changes.

 

Susan

 

_____________________

 

The Indiana Department of Health has finally released its guidance regarding visitation.  First, please know all of Guerin Woods's staff is anxious to facilitate expanded visitation.  Our elder's need it.  Second, we care about your elders and want them to be happy, yet safe.  Third, having said that, our senior staff and I are very concerned about the rising local positivity rate and the timing and extent of IDH's changes to visitation restrictions.  For example, we are no longer permitted to require testing (or vaccination), and elders are permitted to more freely leave and return to campus.  Accordingly, your Elders (and our staff) will ultimately be exposed to visitors who are carrying COVID-19.  For obvious reasons, this is terribly worrisome to us, and I strongly encourage you to take advantage of local testing.  Given the extreme threat, and despite the significant cost, Guerin Woods will also continue to absorb the cost of testing if you wish to be tested on our campus.  Please, please, for the sake of all of our Elders and their caregivers, take advantage of this offer.  (As before, you can schedule testing at https://guerinwoods.simplybook.me/v2/#book.)  This threat also needs to inform your diligence and the seriousness with which you follow the infection prevention measures requested by Guerin Woods. . .regardless of your vaccination status.

 

It is also imperative that visitors understand that their movement within a Villa will be strictly controlled because of the significant risk posed by their presence.  No visitor is permitted to enter, exit, or move within in any common area without the permission of a staff member.  Our staff is already extremely busy, so visitors will very likely need to patiently wait for assistance.

 

The limited restrictions below will only be in place if we are able to keep our staff and Elder's healthy.  Should the positivity rate continue to climb or should we have additional outbreaks, prior restrictions will be reinstituted.

 

The Indiana Department of Health has lifted most of the restrictions that delineated the various types of visitation.  Accordingly, with the exception of "compassionate care" visitation and excursions, Guerin Woods will no longer categorize different types of visitation.  A visit is simply a visit.

 

1.                 Notification Requirement – Before any anticipated interaction with an Elder, Visitors must -- no fewer than 48 hours in advance -- notify Guerin Woods via Simply Book Me (https://guerinwoods.simplybook.me/v2/#book).  There are no restrictions on the frequency or length of visits, but Guerin Woods needs to ensure proper staffing and manage the total number of visitors in the Villas at any given time.  The Simply Book Me application will not restrict frequency or length of visitation, but is configured in 30-minute increments.  Accordingly, if you wish to visit from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., you will need to "book" the four 30-minute time slots between those times. 

 

Please note that Guerin Woods is permitted to manage the total number of visitors in a Villa at any time.  Accordingly, we may cancel or delay a scheduled visit if an excessive number of visitors book simultaneous appointments. 

 

With regard to excursions and end-of-life visitation, requirements are slightly different.

 

a.                                                  Excursions: Any family member or friend who anticipates having direct contact with an Elder for purposes of escorting them on an excursion off campus (e.g., to a doctor's appointment) must no fewer than 72 hours in advance:

 

i.                                                                 "Block" the Elder's schedule via Simply Book Me (https://guerinwoods.simplybook.me/v2/#book) application and

 

ii.                                                               Send an email to kbell@pssmsi.org and cwild@pssmsi.org indicating (A) the excursion destination; (B) the infection prevention practices in place at that destination; (C) the anticipated duration of the excursion; (D) the identity and contact details (email and cell phone number) of the Elder's escort(s), i.e., the person(s) who will be responsible for picking up and dropping off the Elder; and (E) by description any others with whom the Elder will come in contact during the excursion.

 

b.                                                 End-of-Life Visitation: Guerin Woods does not require the use of its scheduling application for end-of-life visitation.  Instead, family members should contact Chelsea Wild, Social Services Director (812-951-9088; cwild@pssmsi.org), Bonnie Johnston, Director of Nursing (502-396-0158; bjohnston@pssmsi.org), or Lisa Baker, Administrator (812-399-9046; lbaker@pssmsi.org) to make appropriate arrangements.

 

2.                 Testing – Visitor testing for COVID-19 is not required, but Guerin Woods strongly advises visitors to test no less than weekly to minimize the risk to Elders and their caregivers.  Any visitor who wishes to be tested on Guerin Woods campus may do so electronically by scheduling an appointment with the Simply Book Me application (https://guerinwoods.simplybook.me/v2/#book).

 

3.                 Infection Prevention Requirements

 

a.                                                  Masks: All visitors interacting with an Elder will be given a mask that must properly worn during the entirety of the scheduled visit or excursion.  Cloth masks are not sufficient because they provide far less protection to the Elder and Guerin Woods staff.

 

b.                                                 Social Distancing: Within the confines of an Elder's room, the CDC has now indicated that "if [an Elder] is fully vaccinated, they can choose to have close contact (including touch) with their visitor while [i] wearing a well-fitted face mask and [ii] performing hand-hygiene before and after."  However, outside the confines of an Elder's room and with regard to all staff and other Elders, visitors must maintain social distancing of six feet or more at all times. 

 

c.                                                  Clean Hands: Frequently, and no less than immediately before and after each Elder interaction, both visitors and the Elder must properly use alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water to clean their hands.  Alcohol-based hand rub is readily available in each of the Villas.  Training materials and signage is available in all of the Villas, but if visitors have any questions regarding proper hand cleaning, they should ask a staff member.

 

4.                 Acknowledgement of Visitation Requirements & Health Survey – Prior to interacting with an Elder, all visitors must complete an Acknowledgment of Visitation Requirements & Health Survey form (Health Survey), which includes a temperature check.  These forms will available on the front porch of each Villa.  WE CANNOT ALLOW VISITATION IF A VISITOR'S SURVEY RESPONSES OR A VISITOR'S SYMPTOMS OR BODY TEMPERATURE INDICATE A RISK OF EXPOSURE.  Given the extreme risk associated with the lifting of visitation restrictions, Guerin Woods will be very strict in excluding visitors who have any signs or symptoms of illness.

 

5.                 Schedule – Daily, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. (our pre-pandemic schedule).

 

6.                 Location – In order to protect staff and other Elders, visitors must restrict their visits to their Elder's room.  After signing the Health Survey and at the direction of a staff member, visitors should walk directly to the Elder's room, avoiding all interaction with others Elders and minimizing interaction with staff.  Should a visitor wish to visit with an Elder in the garden area, they should notify staff.  If the garden is already occupied or Elders are in the common area near the garden door, a garden visit may be postponed or denied.  When visitors wish to leave, they must call for assistance and stay in their Elder's room until a staff member is available to direct their exit.

 

7.                 Number of Visitors – Elders may have no more than two visitors at a time.

 

8.                 Age Restrictions – Because all visitors must be able to comply with all infection prevention protocols, Guerin Woods strongly discourages any visitor under the age of 12.

______________________________________________

 

1. Guerin Woods COVID-19 Statistics

Total # of Elder Cases	New Elder Cases in Last 24 Hrs	Elder Deaths in Last 24 Hrs	Instances of 3 or More Elders/Staff w/ New Onset of Respiratory Symptoms w/in 72 hours of Each Other
15*	0	0	0

 *COVID-19 positive test dates: 8/5/20 (1); 10/14/20 (1); 10/21/20 (1); 10/23/20 (2); 10/29/20 (1); 11/16/20 (1; new admission from another facility); 11/19/20 (1); 12/11/20 (3); 12/15/20 (2); 12/18/20 (1); 12/20/20 (1).

2. Examples of Facility Infection Mitigation/Prevention/Planning Measures

Visitation restrictions

Staff Competency Reinforcement/Training: Infection Control; COVID-19; Proper PPE Use; Handwashing; Social Distancing, etc.

Daily staff reminders to self-monitor for fever and symptoms of COVID-19 and to stay home if unwell

Staff use of masks and eyewear in Villas

Increased cleaning frequency & use of COVID-19/EPA approved sanitizing solutions for equipment, frequently touched surfaces and common areas

Placement of alcohol-based hand sanitizer throughout the Villas and in elders' rooms

Placement of tissues and trash cans in elder's rooms and in common areas for respiratory hygiene, cough etiquette, and source control

Elder social distancing and use of masks (for those able) when in common areas

Transition to telephonic/video meetings whenever possible, e.g., Care Plan Meetings

Use of telehealth when appropriate

Creation and use of signage to remind elders and staff re PPE usage, cough etiquette, social distancing, handwashing

Creation of signage in anticipation of positive COVID-19 cases re proper use of PPE, precautions, etc.

Adoption of pharmacy policies & practices that ensure availability of all necessary medications

Pre-shift health assessment/screening of every staff member, including all CDC-defined COVID-19 symptoms

Assessment of elders for CDC-defined COVID-19 symptoms every shift

Cancellation of all non-essential medical appointments, e.g., routine eye exams

Acquisition of additional/excess supplies, e.g., ABHS, soap, paper towels, sanitizing solutions, PPE, oxygen concentrators

Acquisition of COVID-19 testing equipment/kits and frequent testing of staff, vendors, third-party providers, elders, and EFCs

Conversion of separate on-site facility to staff sleeping quarters, including procurement of beds, linens, etc.

Conversion of separate on-site facility to accommodate COVID-19 supplies, including preparation of individual kits for ease of use

Staging of COVID-19 materials in anticipation of providing immediate response

On-site CNA course, including but not limited to staff training, licensure, procurement of necessary course materials, etc., in anticipation of potential staffing shortages

Daily meetings among executive and senior clinical staff re newest state and federal COVID-19 regulations & guidance (and changes thereto), associated changes to policies/procedures, education/training, facility changes, etc.

Extensive contingency planning, including adoption of new policies & procedures (and frequent amendment of same as guidelines from federal and state public health authorities change)

Frequent coordination with local and state public health and emergency response authorities

Exclusion of COVID-19 positive and COVID-19 exposed employees in compliance with CDC guidelines

Isolation of elders who may have had an exposure per IDH and CDC guidelines

3.  Guerin Woods Contacts

Contact (Title)	Lisa Baker (Administrator)	Susan Gernert (President & CEO)
Cell Phone	812-399-9046	502-830-4336
Email	lbaker@pssmsi.org	sgernert@pssmsi.org

4. Elder Testing & Transfers: Guerin Woods is following the guidance and directives of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH), and Floyd County Health Department regarding Elder testing.  If an Elder were to test positive for COVID-19, the Elder would be transferred to a hospital or other appropriate facility.
5. General Information:  For more information about COVID-19, please refer to: https://www.coronavirus.in.gov/2400.htm; https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.  You can also address general questions about COVID-19 to the ISDH COVID-19 Call Center, available 24/7, at 877-826-0011.
6. Indiana Long-Term Care Ombudsman: The Ombudsman is NOT a representative of the facility, ISDH, or any other organization. However, we do want to provide accurate information to ensure families are comfortable that their loved ones are as safe as possible and are able to make informed decisions.

Physical Address	Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman 402 West Washington Street, Room W451 Post Office Box 7083, MS 27 Indianapolis, Indiana 46207-7083
Phone Number	800-622-4484 or 317-232-7134
Fax Number	317-972-3285
Email	LongTermCareOmbudsman@ombudsman.IN.gov
Website	https://www.in.gov/ombudsman/2347.htm

 Susan

 

Susan Gernert

President & CEO

 

 

Providence Self Sufficiency Ministries, Inc.

Guerin, Inc.

The Meadows of Guerin, Inc.

 

sgernert@pssmsi.org

502-830-4336 (cell)

 

8037 Unruh Drive

Georgetown, Indiana 47122

 

guerininc.org