The dedicated crew of the Care Center would like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding during this challenging time.
First and foremost, we want to acknowledge that we understand that each and every family, friend, and resident has concerns at this time. We want to share with you what steps have been taken, and what will continue to be done, at the Care Center at Sunset Lake.
• Communication, as you know, has been challenging. We are doing our best to communicate to each and every family member as timely as we can. Please know that you can always reach out to your loved one’s case manager for information. Staff will notify families of any change in condition of their loved one.
• The NYS Department of Health is currently working closely with the Care Center regarding possible exposures and directing us on what steps need to be taken. You would have already been notified if your loved one was tested. Any additional testing will be done at the hospital, if warranted. If there is another confirmed case, the Department of Health will again give guidance.
• Here are the steps that we are taking so you can have the most information regarding safeguarding our residents and staff:
o Residents
? Daily checks of all residents’ temperatures are taken / monitored every shift (8AM - 4PM, 4PM - 12AM, 12AM - 8AM)
? Social distancing – 6 feet away from each other, and no group activities
? Staff are wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) for the protection of the residents and themselves
o Staff
? Screened upon start of each shift. Temperature taken, condition assessed and documented in a secure area before being allowed in the main facility
? PPE is provided and strictly enforced
? Daily staff education and updates
• In regards to daily operations at the Care Center:
o We are continuing therapies, although some have been modified to room therapy if it can be accommodated
o Activities are ongoing. We are not doing large group activities. We are meeting people in their rooms, and lots of fun and healthy individualized activities are occurring in the building
o Meals are being served with no disturbance
o DPW (Sullivan County Department of Public Works) has increased cleaning and sanitizing the facility
o Laundry is continuing as usual
“The County and the Legislature are doing everything we can to make your loved ones as comfortable and safe as possible,” explains District 2 Legislator Nadia Rajsz, chair of the Legislature’s Health & Family Services Committee. “I am a healthcare professional myself and understand the enormity of what our employees are dealing with – and the professionalism, dedication and courage they bring to work every day.”
“We are adamantly committed to the care of our residents and safety of our staff,” says Health & Family Services Commissioner Stephanie Brown, RN. “We will get through this challenging time, and we look forward to the day we can reunite you with your loved ones!”