Letter from the Administrator 8-28-2020
DATE: 08/28/2020
Dear Rolling Hills Residents and representatives,
Today, August 28, 2020, we were informed that one staff member tested positive for COVID-19. This staff person had a known exposure outside of work two weeks ago and was immediately put on quarantine. Testing was conducted a few days post exposure as recommended to ensure it would be an accurate result. The staff person has not had any contact with residents or staff since August 16th so risk to residents and staff is considered minimal. As a result there are no residents or staff that need to be quarantined at this time. This individual has no symptoms and will complete the quarantine period at home as directed by the health department. We continue to work in cooperation with the Monroe County Health Department and the Wisconsin Department of Health to ensure we have all measures in place to try to prevent transmission to our residents or additional staff.
One question that is often asked is how we identify who is considered as having an exposure to someone with the virus. The Health Department guidance states any skin to skin contact (for example – holding hands or a hug) or 15 minutes or more in close proximity (within 6 feet distance) without wearing a mask. All our staff are required to wear masks in the facility at all times. We tend to err on the side of caution so if we believe there is a chance of exposure we will quarantine that individual.
We will be testing all staff and residents as soon as additional testing supplies arrive and will repeat this testing every week until we have no positive cases for 14 days per the CDC and CMS guidance. This is done to monitor for individuals who may carry the virus but are not showing any symptoms. If any residents or staff develop any symptoms they will be quarantined and tested immediately.
We continue to screen healthcare workers for illness prior to each shift. Staff are wearing masks at all times, following good hand hygiene protocols and maintaining distancing except when providing direct resident care. Additional cleaning and disinfection is being done in all resident rooms and common areas.
All residents are being monitored daily for signs and symptoms of illness. Residents are encouraged to wear masks when out of their room, use hand sanitizer and practice safe distancing from other residents.
We will continue to provide you with periodic updates with as much information as we can while still abiding by privacy laws. You will be informed if any additional cases are identified. Resident representatives will be contacted directly if your resident has a change in their health or is suspected of having an exposure to COVID-19. Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns!
Sincerely,
Linda Smith NHA
Administrator