Important information about IRT Thomas Holt Kirrawee Aged Care Centre

05 April 2022

Dear family member/resident representative,

I am writing to provide you with an update on your loved one’s aged care centre.

Over the weekend, we unfortunately had a resident in Jacaranda Level 2 test positive for COVID-19 following a routine PCR test whilst being treated for other health concerns.

Following this, a resident in Magnolia Cottage was tested for COVID-19 via a rapid antigen test after displaying some flu-like symptoms and also returned a positive result.

As a precaution, all residents in Jacaranda Level 2 and Magnolia Cottage were rapid antigen tested followed by a PCR test, and unfortunately an additional 4 residents returned a positive result. We are still pending a number of PCR test results for both Magnolia Cottage and Jacaranda Level 2 and I will keep you informed of the results.

We are now caring for 6 residents at the aged care centre who are COVID-19 positive. Following consultation with the resident and their families, these residents have now been relocated to our dedicated COVID-19 wing on Level 1 of the aged care centre where they will continue to be cared for.

We are now in consultation with the NSW Public Health Unit and have implemented our Outbreak Management Plan to ensure the risk of transmission is reduced at the aged care centre.

We understand that this increase in case numbers is a concern and we have implemented some infection control protocols in response, which includes where possible for residents in Magnolia Cottage to be cared for in their rooms where they will receive their meals. Residents in Jacaranda Level 2 are also being encouraged to stay within their floor.

While the centre is operating with many extra precautions in place, staff have continued to manage the many day to day needs of an aged care centre. This includes providing that special level of care required for our residents palliating, and nearing the end of their life (for reasons not related to COVID-19).

Last night was such an occasion when we acknowledged the passing of one our residents and felt privileged to be able to assist their family to say goodbye to their loved one. The resident had been a member of the IRT Thomas Holt Kirrawee family for some time, and we will all miss them. We extend our deepest sympathies to their family and friends.

Visiting arrangements  

With an increase in case numbers at the centre we strongly encourage you to reconsider the need to visit your loved one.

If you feel you must continue with your scheduled visit please proceed with caution. If visiting a loved one please do so only in their room, wearing all necessary PPE at all times. 

Please do not visit the care centre if you are unwell with even the mildest symptoms, or if you are awaiting the result of a PCR test.

For all other details of our visiting requirements for NSW aged care centres please see here.

If you choose not to visit the Lifestyle Team can assist where needed to connect residents with family and friends by phone or video call.

You are receiving this message as you have been identified as the person responsible for your loved one. Please pass this message on to others as you consider appropriate.

If you have any questions please contact your Care Manager.

Thank you for your ongoing support.  

Yours sincerely,

Nia Briguglio
EGM – Aged Care Centres