The Culpeper Limits Visitors Amid Coronavirus Concerns
The Culpeper team continues to be vigilant to control and prevent the spread of the novel Coronavirus—or COVID-19. As this virus is becoming more widespread in the U.S. and around the world, The Culpeper is taking appropriate precautionary measures by following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recommendations. Out of an abundance of caution for the health and safety of our residents, their families and our team members, The Culpeper will implement temporary visitation limitations to our health care, assisted living, and memory support care areas, effective March 12, 2020.
For Individuals Outside of The Culpeper: Visitation is being restricted. All visitations will be deferred until further notice, unless there is an extenuating circumstance, requiring permission from a member of The Culpeper’s management team. Extenuating circumstances include end-of-life events and when a visitor is essential for a resident’s wellbeing and care. All visitors will be actively screened using a series of questions and a body temperature check, as recommended by the CDC and CMS. Additionally, a visitor may be required to use personal protective equipment, such as a facemask and gloves. Before visiting, contact The Culpeper to be connected with a team member who can discuss your request.
For Culpeper Residents: We recognize the need for independent living residents to enter and visit these care areas. A plan is in place to allow for this. The screening steps noted above will also apply to independent living residents who have a need to enter these care areas.
For Culpeper Team Members: We are monitoring our team members for signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and for potential exposure. Team members have been educated regarding the process of self-reporting which includes travel history and signs/symptoms of respiratory illness.
During a visit, all visitors must limit physical contact with residents and others as well as limit movement within these care areas. The Culpeper is also reviewing visit criteria for volunteers, vendors, emergency medical personnel, transportation providers and other practitioners.
Additionally, we will cancel all activities and events involving large groups and the outside community. We recognize the quality of life plays a significant role in the wellbeing of our residents and activities support that quality of life. However, we are taking necessary actions to help prevent any potential exposure or transmission of the virus.
Our residents have the right to enter and exit The Culpeper as they wish, and this right will continue to be supported. However, we discourage all residents from attending nonessential events outside of The Culpeper due to the continued spread of the virus. We, of course, recognize the need for residents to continue to attend outside medical appointments.
We have concern for our families and encourage everyone to take steps to protect themselves.
Recommendations to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19:
- Avoid contact with people who are sick, crowds, nonessential travel, high-touch surfaces in public places.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Practice proper hand hygiene.
- Clean and disinfect your home.
- If you develop symptoms of COVID-19—fever, cough and shortness of breath—stay home, call your healthcare provider and let them know about your symptoms.
The Culpeper team is focused on prevention and we are working to build barriers against the spread. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding. Our residents and families trust us, and we take that trust very seriously. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to a member of management. As additional information develops, we will revise these protocols as warranted.