15th May 2024
Dear Residents, Family and Friends,
News flash …unfortunately COVID has returned to Maroba over recent weeks in very small numbers amongst residents and staff, however today we can advise that we have reported an outbreak to the Public Health Unit. There are 7 residents in Nobbys who are isolating in their rooms and 2 in Honeysuckle. Four staff are currently off duty due to Covid .
It has been reported in the NSW Health statistics that the number of Covid cases amongst staff and residents is increasing significantly across the state, reminding everyone not to be complacent with Vaccinations and all our protective protocols. I congratulate everyone on your efforts to maintain good hand hygiene, social distancing and coughing and sneezing etiquette thus far as it all helps. RAT testing is imperative if we are to give our residents the best protection, so ensure you undertake a RAT every day that you visit and I stress DO NOT visit if you are even slightly unwell, as a negative RAT is no guarantee you do not have an infectious respiratory disease. Stay home and seek medical advise rather than press on with a visit. Please be cautious if you have returned from holidays or have attended large public events.
As for Excursions, it is important to give the Reg Nurse notice that you are taking your loved one out so they can have everything ready. Be sure to let staff know as you depart and return to the building so everyone can be accounted for. If your loved one has COVID or is in an affected area please consult with the Reg Nurse for advise and guidance in relation to outings or appointments.
Current COVID guidelines at Maroba:
For Residents
- Residents only undergo a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) when they are symptomatic and if there has been an exposure to a Covid positive person. This may escalate if other areas are impacted. Resident activities will be limited to the building you reside in for now.
For Visitors
- All visitors must undertake a RAT before visiting Maroba, even if you visit daily. Please write the date of the test on the RAT cartridge before taking a photo or placing it in a secure clear bag. Keep a photo of your RAT test on your phone as proof and present it to reception or a staff member after hours. Free RAT kits are still available at our reception, please feel free to take some home to test before your visit. Do not leave the kits in your car as they must be kept at a cool stable temperature to be effective.
- Visitors to Nobbys must wear a mask and if you are visiting a COVID positive resident you are expected to wear the full Protective attire provided . I also recommend limited visits to reduce the risk of Covid exposure. Please assess your own personal risk factors before such an exposure.
- No longer any restrictions on the number of visitors to Non Covid effected residents. You are welcome to use common areas and may enjoy refreshments together inside during your visit.
- There are no visiting hours however for the safety of our residents the doors are locked from sunset until sunrise. During these times visitors access is by pressing the call button at the entrance, so a staff member is aware of your arrival and can let you in. Dinner commences around 5.00pm and after dinner residents are usually settling in for the night. Arrangements can be made with staff if you are taking your loved one out during these hours to have easy access on your return.
- Check in using the Cool Gard System is no longer mandatory for visitors but please show your RAT photo to reception.
- Please don’t visit if unwell or Covid Positive or if you have been in contact with a Covid positive person in the last seven days. Please let us know so we can assess the risk.
For Staff, Volunteers, Contractors, Agency Staff & Students
- Our staff, volunteers, students and Agency Staff will continue to RAT test each time before coming onsite at Maroba.
- Volunteers, Contractors, Agency Staff, and Students will continue to check in using our CoolGard System.
If you have concerns with our approach, please call us to discuss. Alternatively, you can contact:
- Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) on 1800 700 600
- The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission on 1800 951 822
- Senior Rights Service 1800 424 079
For additional information, please contact reception at 4935 0300 during office hours or email us at enquiries@maroba.om.au.
I am pleased to be back at Maroba after a wonderful road trip and have been sharing many stories with our residents already. I can feel another slide show coming on soon when everyone is well again!