Important Staff Update: Positive COVID-19 cases identified at Calvary Cessnock

Date:   12 April 2022

To:       All staff at Calvary Cessnock

From:  Sandeep Kandel, General Manager Aged Care

I am writing to inform you that unfortunately nine (9) residents have tested positive for COVID-19 at Calvary Cessnock. The COVID positive residents who all reside in Neath Lodge are currently isolating and receiving care in their rooms. We have contacted the families of our COVID-positive residents and are keeping them informed directly.

Neath Lodge will be closed to visitors for the next three (3) days to enable the home to ensure all safety measures are in place for residents, visitors and staff.

What are we doing to keep resident’s safe?

The home’s updated COVID-19 Outbreak Management Plan (OMP) has been enacted and we have taken immediate action to contain transmission and keep residents and staff safe. We have:

• Physically separated the affected persons, including any close contacts;
• Ensured all residents are being safely cared for in their rooms, including meals and activities;
• Notified and are working with the State and Commonwealth agencies;
• Continue our COVID-19 testing regime of residents and staff;
• Supplied full outbreak personal protective equipment (PPE - gloves, masks, face shields, gowns) to required areas.

In addition to these first actions, our care continuity plan ensures we have the clinical and non-clinical staff, as well as other support services necessary to meet the individual care needs of our residents during situations such as this.

Information for all visitors during an outbreak

• With the exception of Neath Lodge, there is no limit to the number of visitors allowed per resident, per day at Calvary Cessnock.
• All visits must be booked in advance. Please contact 4993 9000 during regular business hours (8.30am-5pm) to make your booking.
• There are two (2) periods for arriving visitors – 11am to 2pm; and from 3.15pm to 5pm. The set time periods relate to visitors’ arrival on site. Once inside, visitors may stay longer.
• Visitors will be required to complete screening requirements prior to entry and wear appropriate PPE (including surgical mask and shield) whilst visiting. PPE is provided by Calvary. Staff will assist you as needed.
• We ask that you view this short video prior to visiting the home, which explains what to expect when you visit during an outbreak including how to don (put on) and doff (take off) PPE. Staff will be able to assist you as required.
• Visitors will be required to have a rapid antigen test (RAT test) before entering the home. 
• Visitation exceptions may be made for residents receiving end of life care, residents who may be experiencing distress, or where a special care and support role is provided.

Visitation to Neath Lodge

• As noted, Neath Lodge will be closed to visitors for the next three days.
• Neath Lodge will re-open on Saturday 15 April 2022 to one fully vaccinated visitor per resident, per day.
• All visits must be booked in advance.

We need you to continue to work

You are safe to continue to provide resident care because you are trained and prepared for situations such as this. Your training means you will know how to provide resident care safely by following our strict infection prevention and control procedures, including the correct use of PPE.

What do I need to remember?

Our first priority and focus is the safety, health and wellbeing of the people in our care, including you, our employees, at this challenging time. You will be kept informed by your Manager as the situation develops.

• Notify your Manager immediately if you have been notified that you are a close contact of a positive case, are showing symptoms of COVID-19, or are in any way unwell.
• Wear PPE as advised. If you have any questions, please speak with your Manager.
• Follow the COVID-19 media protocol. If you are contacted by a journalist, do not answer questions. Simply record the journalist’s name, media agency and contact details and notify the Manager.
• If you are experiencing any form of distress or anxiety, please speak to your Manager. If you find you require additional support, please reach out to our Employee Assistance Provider (EAP).

Thank you for all that you are doing to ensure our residents continue to receive the safest possible care with empathy and compassion in this challenging time.