The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) has taken a number of actions to assist Fairfield Park during the on-going COVID-19 outbreak at the Wallaceburg long-term care home.
“Our infection prevention and control team has been in there weekly for the last three weeks offering support and education and continues to do so,” hospital officials told the Sydenham Current.
“The home is supported regularly by a nurse practitioner from our nurse led outreach team.”
CKHA officials say they have redeployed a housekeeping supervisor, along with four housekeeping staff to provide additional support.
“CKHA has redeployed five personal support workers to assist with care in the home,” hospital officials added.
Chatham-Kent EMS is also going to provide some logistical advice to the home over the next few days, hospital officials said on Friday, January 29, 2021.
“An inventory of additional staff resources among community partners is underway to assess secondment opportunities to CKHA for potential deployment to the outbreak site,” hospital officials say.
“CKHA intends to provide significant support to help, not only with patient care, but also to support the mental health and well-being of the staff, physicians and care givers at Fairfield who are facing this challenge at this time.”
Fairfield Park officials said they received confirmation from the Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit that there were a total of 18 residents and 13 staff who have tested positive for COVID-19 within the home as of 12 p.m. on Friday.
“The safety of our residents and our employees is our top priority,” Fairfield Park officials posted on their website on Friday.
“We continue to be inspired by the commitment and dedication of our Fairfield Park staff who continue to do their part in following infection control protocols, and giving the best care to our residents.”
Fairfield Park officials say they continue to allow one essential caregiver into the home per resident.
“Full PPE must be worn by all essential caregivers at all times,” Fairfield Park officials say.
“This includes gown, gloves, eye protection and a mask worn properly over the nose and mouth, including while in resident rooms. We will provide these items for you.”
Fairfield Park officials added: “We are grateful for the outpouring of support by our community. Together we can get through this.”
Tracey Maxim, administrator at Fairfield Park, said while the situation “remains concerning” for all staff and leaders, they feel very supported by the community, residents, and their families and loved ones.
“The staffing supports put in place over the past three days have provided significant relief as we navigate this outbreak,” Maxim said in a press release.
The Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit first declared the outbreak at Fairfield Park on January 10, 2021.
