Rules, rules, rules
Strict protocol must be followed by CMHC visitors
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Community Memorial Health Center in Hartley will reopen to visitors under strict protocol on Monday, July 13.
Staff members and residents at Community Memorial Health Center in Hartley are gearing up for the facility's first visitors in nearly four months, but they need to memorize some rules first.
The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) last week released guidelines for long-term care facilities to follow once they reopen to visitors. According to CMHC administrator Janette Simon, family members have already been setting up visits, which begin July 13.
"We're a little apprehensive about opening up, but by and large I think it's the right thing to do right now," Simon said.
Nursing homes and assisted living centers have been closed to outsiders since late March due to the threat of COVID-19, which is particularly deadly in elderly patients.
Residents have been able to talk with loved ones via video chats, telephone calls and closed window visits, but nothing more.
Starting Monday, they will be able to have open window visits, outside visits and conference room meetings. A six-foot distance must be maintained, and both guests and residents will be required to wear masks. Hand sanitizer must also be used prior to each visit. Simon said open window visits are off the table until temperatures cool down.
Only two guests will be allowed per visit, and each resident can have only one visit per day. Each appointment has a 20-minute maximum.
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In addition to video calls and regular telephone conversations, the only visits at CMHC since March have been through a closed window.
"One of the things that we need to stress is that this is permissible by the Iowa Department of Public Health and it's subject to the facility staying COVID-free or additional directives that they give us," Simon said. "We have to try, see as many people as we can and hope for the best."
So far, no CMHC resident or staff member has tested positive for coronavirus during the pandemic. Guests cannot be exhibiting any symptoms of COVID-19 prior to their visit and must pass a health screening.
"You're really counting on people to tell the truth when they answer these questions," said Simon.
Additionally, all visitors must remain in the designated areas and are not allowed to go anywhere else, even the public restrooms.
"Hopefully everything we have in place is good," Simon said. "When our residents found out we will be able to reopen for visits, they were just so excited and started asking a lot questions right away."
