08 October 2021
Dear family member/resident representative,
I am writing to provide you with an update about your loved one’s aged care centre.
Since writing to you yesterday we have received further results from the COVID-19 tests of residents and staff.
Results so far have indicated a total of 6 residents have tested positive to the virus while all other results received for residents and staff so far have been negative.
The residents who have tested positive are experiencing a range of symptoms from none at all, to mild and moderate. In consultation with Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District, and as a precaution, they are being transferred from the centre to isolate with additional monitoring and care.
Three of the residents have been transported to Wollongong Hospital for extra treatment and the remaining residents who are clinically well are being transferred to Ramsay Health Care’s Lawrence Hargrave Hospital where they will be monitored closely for any acute care needs if they arise.
Today all remaining residents at the centre, as well as staff are again being tested for COVID-19. I am grateful to them for their cooperation and patience and I will update you tomorrow on the results received.
As I said yesterday I acknowledge this may be a concern but we have been quick to manage the site in accordance with our outbreak management plan and are continuing to work with the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District (ISLHD) and other health authorities to ensure all necessary infection control protocols are in place.
Staff will continue to care for residents in their rooms and are assisting them when needed, to connect with family and friends via phone and video calls; and are supporting them to ensure they maintain their strength and mobility.
Activity packs which include puzzles, quizzes, games and colouring in materials have been distributed and today they will be offered a range of ice creams.
Staff will also assist them where needed to connect with you via phone or video call.
In accordance with our outbreak management plan all residents are being monitored routinely with regular temperature checks.
Delivery of Gifts
If you would like to deliver or send any gifts to your loved one please assist us with the following:
- All items to be delivered between 10am – 11am or 1pm – 2pm
- All items to be placed on a table which has been positioned and is identified as the table for gift delivery outside reception
- Do not send items that require refrigeration
As I stated yesterday I will provide you with regular updates like this and our team will continue to make regular phone calls to you as you are identified in our records as the person responsible for your loved one. I encourage you to pass on the regular updates to other family members as you consider appropriate.
As per current Public Health Unit directions the centre remains closed to all visitors.
If you have any questions please do not call IRT Tarrawanna Aged Care Centre. Please call our Customer Service Team on 134 478.
I look forward to your cooperation.
Yours sincerely
Nia Briguglio
EGM – Aged Care Centres
