Resident Photo Albums and COVID Positive Update

In accordance with requirements created by the New York State Department of Health, you are receiving this letter to notify you that we had another employee test positive for the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) at the Lutheran Home and Rehabilitation Center during our weekly employee testing. This was a per diem employee who was asymptomatic on the day of testing and continues to be asymptomatic while recovering at home. This is our third staff-related case. The most recent (our second case which was reported to you on July 30) has already tested negative and returned to our workforce.

At the time of this writing, we DO NOT have any COVID-19 positive residents.

We understand the frustration that this may be causing you. Sadly, exposure to our staff was inevitable. One quick look at social media, television, newspapers, etc. and you can see the approach our society as a whole has adopted. Some people are taking precautions; doing what is necessary to protect themselves and those around them. Other people take zero precautions with little-to-no regard of the impact their actions can have on others through primary or secondary exposure. This is where our greatest risk comes from. Regardless of where you personally fall on the severity spectrum, COVID-19 will continue to be a struggle for our industry, our campus, and our residents. The less our community does to prevent the spread, the more likely our staff will be exposed and bring the virus within our walls. It is in our best interest and yours to encourage contact precautions whenever possible with whoever possible. Changing just one mind can have a ripple effect and save lives down the line.

Sadly, this positive test result is going to continue to delay our ability to reopen for visitation in the nursing home. Scheduled visitation to the Hultquist Place Assisted Living Program remains unaffected.

Shifting gears for a moment, I want to share an idea with you that our Community Life employees brought to me as another way to connect you with your family. While window visits and video chats continue to be available to all, sometimes seeing photographs (old and new) can help boost our residents’ spirit. Consider creating a scrap book or photo album for your loved ones in our care using copies of photos, children’s coloring pages, and other memories that have gone on over the last few months. Having something to hold on to and look at on a regular basis (clearly labeled with names and happenings for those with cognitive impairments) can go great lengths to fighting depression during this time. Gifts can be dropped off at the LHRC front desk for our staff to sanitize and deliver.

For up-to-date news as it is available, please use our 24/7 hotline found below. Please continue to stay strong for yourselves, for our staff, and for your loved ones in our care. We need your support and advocacy in the community now more than ever. Stay vigilant. Cover your face. Wash your hands. Keep your distance. Thank you again for your cooperation and patience during this challenging time.

Symptomatic Residents Tested for COVID-19 22
HP & LHRC Residents Tested for COVID-19 by DOH 153
Residents Currently Testing Positive for COVID-19 0
Employees Tested for COVID-19 (Mandated) – Week 13 ALL
Employees Currently Testing Positive for COVID-19 1
Former COVID-19 Positive Employees Recovered 2

Sincerely,

Tom Holt
President and CEO