Between a Rock and a Hard Place: COVID-19 Lessons Learned From Providers Rounding at Skilled Nursing Facilities in the Rural Midwest

Abstract

On March 11, 2020, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was classified as a pandemic, setting in motion unprecedented practice changes across the healthcare industry. Never was this more evident than in Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs). SNFs were tested on multiple fronts, requiring innovation and perseverance at levels never before seen. Lessons learned from this setting to better prepare for the next pandemic include: updating and standardizing infection control and prevention policies, ensuring the supply chain keeps up with demand, updating infrastructure, creating a work environment that promotes well-being, and having clear communication plans.