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:
- 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.
- 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.
- When the level is LOW, masking is not required for staff, visitors or residents.
- Masks will be made available at the front entrance and at the nurse stations for anyone to use at any time.
Visitation:
- Visitation is not allowed for those that:
- have a positive test for COVID-19
- have symptoms of COVID-19
- have had close contact with someone with COVID-19 (visit should be deferred for 10 days)
- Visitation hours will remain from 9am to 8pm as this is best for resident centered care.
- The front entrance and hallway to hospital will remain controlled with badge access required for the times outside of visiting hours.
- Exceptions to visit outside of these hours can be arranged on an individual basis.
- Visitors will still utilize the Accushield kiosk to sign in and complete minor screening. Temperature will no longer be measured.
Attestation:
- All staff will complete an attestation in Health Stream acknowledging that they will not come to work if symptomatic.
- Staff will no longer screen on the Accushield kiosk prior to shift.
- Staff must report any symptoms to Employee Health (406-751-4189) and their supervisor and not enter the facility if sick.
Testing:
- New admissions will continue to require a negative COVID-19 test prior to transferring into the facility.
- Surveillance testing will no longer be performed for staff or residents.
- 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:
- Remaining up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations continues to be recommended by the Centers for Disease Control.
- Residents will be offered the COVID-19 vaccine appropriate for them along with education.
- Vaccines are available for staff as well. Please watch for further information to be shared for these opportunities.
Hand Hygiene:
- 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