Brendan House Communication Updates


December 1 update: Brendan House is currently out of outbreak status There are two active COVID-19 patients in the transitional care unit. Staff are to mask only when caring for those patients on transmission-based precautions.
 

Safeguarding Our Residents

Within our facility, we follow the following guidelines:
Masking:
  1. The use of source control (masking) is required indoors for all when the facility is in COVID-19 outbreak status as determined by local public health or when the COVID-19 Hospital Admission Levels are HIGH.
  2. At this time, the COVID-19 Hospital Admission Level for Flathead county is LOW. This will be assessed weekly on Mondays and updates will be shared should changes be warranted.
  3. When the level is LOW, masking is not required for staff, visitors or residents.
  4. Masks will be made available at the front entrance and at the nurse stations for anyone to use at any time.
Visitation:
  1. Visitation is not allowed for those that:
    1. have a positive test for COVID-19
    2. have symptoms of COVID-19
    3. have had close contact with someone with COVID-19 (visit should be deferred for 10 days)
  2. Visitation hours will remain from 9am to 8pm as this is best for resident centered care.
  3. The front entrance and hallway to hospital will remain controlled with badge access required for the times outside of visiting hours.
  4. Exceptions to visit outside of these hours can be arranged on an individual basis.
  5. Visitors will still utilize the Accushield kiosk to sign in and complete minor screening. Temperature will no longer be measured.
Attestation:
  1. All staff will complete an attestation in Health Stream acknowledging that they will not come to work if symptomatic.
  2. Staff will no longer screen on the Accushield kiosk prior to shift.
  3. Staff must report any symptoms to Employee Health (406-751-4189) and their supervisor and not enter the facility if sick.
Testing:
  1. New admissions will continue to require a negative COVID-19 test prior to transferring into the facility.
  2. Surveillance testing will no longer be performed for staff or residents.
  3. Should a resident present with symptoms of COVID-19, testing will be completed and they will be placed in transmission-based precautions until COVID-19 is ruled out.
Vaccination:
  1. Remaining up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations continues to be recommended by the Centers for Disease Control.
  2. Residents will be offered the COVID-19 vaccine appropriate for them along with education.
  3. Vaccines are available for staff as well. Please watch for further information to be shared for these opportunities.
Hand Hygiene:
  1. Continual diligence with hand hygiene is recommended along with frequent cleaning of high touch areas.

Communication Updates

MAY 16, 2023 - Updated Guidance regarding COVID-19
NOVEMBER 27, 2021 - Letter to residents and families: Update to visitation policy
MAY 11, 2021 - Guidance for resident outings
MARCH 6, 2021 - Patient/Resident Families Agreement Letter