The number of COVID-19 cases is in the thousands, with a large continuous spread throughout Minnesota. A large number of staff are out sick or in quarantine because of exposure to COVID-19. In the last month alone, nearly 85 percent of skilled nursing facilities have had at least one case of COVID-19.
The situation is forcing officials to take unusual measures to provide staffing to nursing homes in the state. Minnesota’s Health Agency is working with 47 long-term care facilities that are in a staffing crisis. The agency plans to send over a thousand emails to state employees asking if they will agree to be temporarily reassigned to work in long-term care.
The Minnesota National Guard has provided emergency staffing to three long-term care facilities from the start of the pandemic to mid-October. In the last month, the National Guard has been called out an additional six times and continue to help four of those nursing facilities. Additionally, the National Guard is preparing to help two additional facilities within the state.
The Governor urged people to refrain from gathering with anyone outside their household for the holidays. The health officials warn that even if you do get a negative COVID-19 test result, you may still be able to spread the virus to others, including older, vulnerable relatives and friends.
Issue
COVID-19 continues to spread and is causing nursing homes to experience dangerously low staffing levels. Regardless of what your community data spread of COVID-19 is at this time, it is imperative that every nursing facility be prepared now for an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases. Emergency preparedness should include reviewing staffing levels and developing or updating a plan on alternate staffing should the pandemic cause a staffing crisis.
Discussion Points:
- Review policies and procedures for ensuring sufficient numbers of staff and the continuing effectiveness of the facility’s Infection Prevention and Control Program. Review policies and procedures for emergency preparedness.
- Train staff on being diligent about the facility’s Infection and Prevention Control Program. Document that training has occurred, and place proof of attendance and competency in the employee’s education files.
- Periodically audit staff to ensure that the facility’s Infection and Prevention Control Program is being followed by all staff and that each one demonstrates understanding and competency.
