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COVID UPDATE:  9/28/2020

We are now in month #7 of the COVID-19 pandemic.  

We continue to strive to remain “COVID Free” here at Saint John XXIII Home.  As mentioned in the last update, we have initiated monthly testing of all staff.  Our September 2020 testing was completed last week and I’m pleased to report that we had zero “positive” cases amongst our staff.  Unfortunately, the Mercer County COVID positivity rate has increased to 5.1%, which requires us to begin testing of all staff on a weekly basis.  Weekly testing will be required until the Mercer County rate drops below 5%.  Resident testing continues to be required for signs/symptoms of COVID, possible exposure and/or a positive case amongst staff.  Routine or surveillance testing of residents is NOT recommended.

Our outside patio visits continue on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.  We have measures in place to move indoors, into Roncalli Center, on days in which the weather doesn’t permit a comfortable visit outside.  The process will remain consistent with the process used for patio visits.  We ask that everyone continue to follow the rules which have been established to protect the well-being of our residents and staff.

In addition, we recognize the connection between mental and emotional and physical health, and that the effects of prolonged isolation may have significant mental and emotional health impacts that a resident’s physical health becomes impaired.  In such instances, our staff will work WITH the resident and family to provide the resident with access to care needed to maintain or improve their health status.  These visits are referred to as a “Compassionate Caregiver” situation.  Please understand that there is specific criteria that must be met to achieve “Compassionate Caregiver” status, including COVID testing consistent with our facility required testing (weekly at present).  The full Compassionate Caregiver Policy and standards related to such, can be reviewed on our website at www.saintjohnxxiiihome.org.  

In conclusion, I thank you for your continued trust and on-going prayers for our residents and staff.  Please do not hesitate to contact me should you have questions.

Sincerely,

Kirk Hawthorne

Administrator/CEO

Saint John XXIII Home