Management of a COVID-19 outbreak using a multidisciplinary approach and infection prevention control practices at a community living center in Veterans Administration Hospital, North Texas
Abstract Background: The increase in severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) cases due to the omicron strain led to reduced acute care hospital beds at the Veterans Administration (VA) Hospital, North Texas; veterans with non-severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) disease wer...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Cambridge University Press
2025-01-01
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| Series: | Antimicrobial Stewardship & Healthcare Epidemiology |
| Online Access: | https://www.cambridge.org/core/product/identifier/S2732494X24004911/type/journal_article |
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| Summary: | Abstract
Background:
The increase in severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) cases due to the omicron strain led to reduced acute care hospital beds at the Veterans Administration (VA) Hospital, North Texas; veterans with non-severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) disease were managed at a community living center (CLC), a VA nursing home. The management of non-severe COVID-19 in VA nursing homes has not been extensively described.
Methods:
We describe resident characteristics and outcomes, and infection control practices implemented during 2 COVID-19 outbreak periods (January 12–February 15, 2022, June 28–July 14, 2023). Serial testing of all CLC residents was conducted, and residents with polymerase chain reaction-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) infection were included in the analysis. Resident data were ascertained from the COVID-19 facility dashboard and medical record system.
Results:
From January 12 to February 15, 2022, and June 28–July 14, 2023, 62 adults residing at the CLC were diagnosed with COVID-19. Overall, the median age was 75 years [interquartile range, 71–80], and 57 (91.9%) were men. Residents were cohorted by COVID-19 test results. A multidisciplinary team was convened, and staff were fit tested for appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and received refresher training on hand hygiene, donning, and doffing of PPE. Thirty-seven (59.7%) residents were symptomatic. Overall, 55 (88.7%) residents were documented to have received the SARS-CoV-2 primary vaccination series. Most residents were managed at the CLC, while 12 (19.3%) were hospitalized in acute care.
Conclusions:
It is feasible to manage high-risk residents with non-severe COVID-19 disease in a CLC utilizing a multidisciplinary approach and implementing Infection Prevention and Control strategies.
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| ISSN: | 2732-494X |