08 July 2022
Dear family member/resident representative,
I am writing to provide you with an update regarding your loved one’s aged care centre. As you know we are currently managing the care centre in accordance with our outbreak management plan and I strongly encourage you not to visit at this time.
Thank you for your ongoing support with this. Special arrangements for compassionate reasons can be made with the Care Manager.
Since writing to you on Wednesday some more of our residents have tested positive for COVID-19. We now have 15 residents from all areas of the centre who are confirmed to have the virus.
Their symptoms range from mild to moderate and we are monitoring them closely as we care for them in their rooms. While we manage the centre with strict infection control protocols in place, all other residents are also encouraged to remain in their rooms where they are being served their meals and supported by the Lifestyle team with activities of interest, and help with phone and video calls where needed.
Although we are operating according to our outbreak management plan our staff continue with the day to day activities of a care centre including care for residents who are nearing the end of life. The staff count this as a privilege and are supporting some of our residents and their loved ones at this time.
In our continued program of early detection all residents who have not yet tested positive will be tested today and again on Sunday. The tests will be conducted via the PCR method where samples are sent off-site for laboratory analysis and results can take up to 24 hours.
I will provide you with another update on Monday when we hope to have results of tests from today and Sunday.
If your loved one tests positive, staff will let them know and will also be in touch with you by phone to let you know.
Visiting arrangements
As I mentioned above, visiting at this time is strongly discouraged, but if you do wish to proceed with your visit please assist staff with the following:
- Children under 12 years of age are not permitted.
- Residents are permitted 2 visitors only by appointment.
- All visitors are asked to show proof of a negative rapid antigen test and before entering the care centre.
- All visitors are asked to wear all necessary PPE at all times while in the care centre including a P2/N95 mask and a face shield which will be provided on entry.
- Those visiting a resident who is considered a close contact or is COVID-19 positive will also be asked to wear a gown and instructed on how to dispose of it safely.
- Please wear your PPE as instructed by staff.
PLEASE DO NOT VISIT if you are unwell yourself, with even the mildest symptoms. Symptoms of infection can indicate a range of contagious viruses including COVID-19, gastroenteritis and influenza.
Delivery of gifts
If you choose not to visit but would like to leave your loved one a gift we would be pleased to ensure it is delivered. A table for this purpose has been set up at Reception where your gift can be placed. Please ensure your loved one’s name is clearly marked on the item.
Please pass this message on to others as you consider appropriate and if you have any questions please contact your Care Manager.
Thank you for your co-operation.
Yours sincerely,
Nia Briguglio
EGM – Aged Care Centres
