Nursing homes navigate new regulations

PLATTSBURGH | Area nursing homes are adjusting to new guidelines from New York State's Department of Health this month, including requirements for all visitors to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within the previous 7 days. While the length of time visitations are on pause was shortened from 28 days to 14, the new regulation serves to reduce the chance that visitors will bring the virus into such facilities. Community Relations Coordinator for Meadowbrook Healthcare Sandra Geddes said that while some in the community were initially excited about the possible easing of restrictions, a closer look shows that the new guidance isn't so clear cut. Just days after the announcement, Meadowbrook announced their sixth COVID-positive staff member. So far, there has been no indication of COVID being spread to any residents. As a result, in-person visitation will now resume October 7. Geddes credits the leadership at Meadowbrook, and said that the facility now has a solid plan to make sure visitation with loved ones will continue uninterrupted. "Regardless of the changes implemented by DOH, we have a plan that will allow us to have visitation ongoing without interruption, whether it's in-person or window visits," Geddes said. The time period in which visitation is paused after a positive employee or resident test is now halved, however the testing requirement is brand new. What hasn't changed is how in-person visitation works. These visits are done outside if weather permits, otherwise they are held in the dining area. Everyone must be masked, and must be at least six feet apart. Hugging, for instance, is not permitted. These visits must also be supervised by staff and limited to two visitors. For those with difficulty seeing or hearing, families often opt to continue with window visits. Geddes said window visits still allow visitors the closest proximity to their loved ones, in addition to allowing more than just two visitors at a time. Visitors who wish to see their family face-to-face without the barrier of a window must now bring proof of a negative test within the past week. "It's very tricky for families because the turnaround times for testing are varied [from] lab to lab," said Geddes. While she has heard of test results that have been as quick as 24 hours or less, some may take several days. Currently, there has not been a case in which the tests results for a visitor took more than 7 days. "I think what happened was when they came out with these new revisions, families were really excited about it," she said. "But, when you really read into it, it stated that visitation doesn't look any different. There's still no going into people's rooms, no holding anybody, no hugging." In addition, visitation is done by floor to decrease the chance of cross-contamination. The dining area is also deep cleaned following visitation. During the winter months, Geddes said outside visitation is unlikely. Within the coming weeks, however, she said Meadowbrook is set to announce a plan to keep their guests and visitors warm on the other side of the window. "Our families have been really good and patient," she said. "And, [they're] going with the flow. Luckily, we have this little niche for window visits because the residents and the families seem to really like them."

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Nursing homes navigate new regulations

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