Remote Infection Control Assessments of US Nursing Homes During the COVID-19 Pandemic, April to June 2020

Journal Club: Remote infection control assessments in long-term care facilities during COVID-19 pandemic in Texas, 2020

“…Interestingly, these results are similar to a previously published article from the CDC Tele-ICAR Team. 5 In that study, which included 629 LTCFs Tele-ICAR consultations across 19 states, 68% of the facilities identified gaps in core IPC practices: 39% of the facilities failed to follow CDC recommendations for hand hygiene, and 24% had gaps in environmental cleaning policies and procedures (failure to follow contact times appropriately). In addition, they reported that communal practices were infrequently suspended: 6% stopped group activities inside the facility and field trips, 7% stopped communal dining, and only 3% of facilities encouraged residents to remain in their rooms.…”

“…In addition, they reported that communal practices were infrequently suspended: 6% stopped group activities inside the facility and field trips, 7% stopped communal dining, and only 3% of facilities encouraged residents to remain in their rooms. 5 …”

“…The ICAR further assists the facility in addressing the root causes of incorrect or suboptimal IPC practices, which promotes the protection of residents and staff from not only COVID but other infectious diseases as well. 5 …”