10 February 2022 | View in Browser
 
 
Coronavirus (COVID-19) | Update for Residents and Families
 

Dear Resident Family Member,

COVID-19 Update for Calvary Cessnock Residents and Families

We are pleased to inform you that in the latest round of rapid antigen testing with Windemere and Elrington households, all residents have returned negative test results.

Whilst we have been able to ease restrictions for the residents in our Windemere household, in line with the Hunter New England Public Health Unit advice, our Elrington residents are continuing to isolate and receive care in their rooms.

We remain in close contact with the Hunter New England Public Health Unit about when restrictions can be safely lifted, and hope to be able to provide further information to families over the next few days.

Information for visitors to Calvary Cessnock

A reminder for families and loved ones when visiting our Calvary Cessnock Retirement Community, which currently remains in lockdown.

Calvary’s Position Statement on Visiting in Aged Care, which took effect from 9 February 2022, allows visits for residents in all circumstances, including when a home is experiencing an outbreak and is in lockdown. There are, however, specific requirements to help keep our residents, their visitors and our staff as safe as possible.

• One (1) fully vaccinated visitor (Partner in Care) per resident will be permitted entry during the home’s designated visiting hours.
• All visitors will be supplied with the appropriate PPE (including face masks and shields as appropriate) to wear whilst visiting. Staff will assist you with donning (putting on) and doffing (removing) PPE correctly.
• We ask that you review the following video which explains how to don and doff PPE.  Staff will be able to support you if this is required when visiting. https://www.health.gov.au/resources/videos/donning-and-doffing-personal-protective-equipment-in-residential-aged-care
• 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. Please speak with the home manager to discuss arrangements.

Please book your visit:

• Due to the size of our home and number of residents, all visitors will need to book their visit in advance. Please contact 4993 9000 during business hours to make your booking.
• All visitors will need to undertake a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) before entering. This takes time, and we ask for your patience as we manage this important screening process.
• All visitors are asked to please stop in at the main administration building,
where staff will be on hand to administer the test.
• 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.
• We understand that there may sometimes need to be exceptions. If so, please make prior arrangements with the home manager – contact 4993 9000 during business hours.
• Bookings and RAT testing for visitors will not be available between 2.00pm-3.15pm. This is the period when a large volume of staff come on duty for afternoon shift, and the screening staff will be busy testing their colleagues.

Our video call system remains in place. Please contact the home to book a video call with your loved one, or if you have any concerns. Clearly labelled care packages for your loved ones may also be left with reception.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding during this challenging time.

Sincerely,    

Sandeep Kandel
General Manager, Aged Care