1 May 2022
Dear Families and Friends
I can now advise that another resident in Waratah suburb has tested positive during the early hours of the morning and whilst not feeling herself, has no fever and is stable at the moment. This brings the total of residents experiencing Covid to 7.
I applaud the staff for noting even the slightest change in residents’ conditions and making the decision to not delay testing consenting residents.
I also note that one of our senior Registered Nurses has sent through a wonderful message about the staff working in Waratah in Full PPE and how well they are doing in supporting all residents. The teamwork and positive attitude is making a real difference to a challenging situation.
Our Family Liaison Team continue to reach out to the key family contact for each resident experiencing Covid which is proving to be a valuable support for each family.
Today all consenting residents across The Lodge and Manor have been PCR swabbed which has been sent away for testing. We hope that all results will come back to us within 24 hrs, as a number of next steps are dependent on the outcome of those tests. However, we have no control over such timing.
At the moment residents across the site remain in their suburbs and are not confined to their rooms. They can move freely in their suburbs and can have a walk outside if physically able. Exercise, social and spiritual care programs are ongoing in a Covid safe manner which is appreciated by residents. Unfortunately, we are not able to take anyone out on the bus at this stage. Medical appointments are still able to go ahead, however other social outings are not. We will review this restriction as soon as all PCR results are available.
We thank you for your patience and support of all the measures we have in place as we continue to liaise closely with the Population Health Unit, Hunter New England Local Health District, NSW Health, the Commonwealth Govt and the Quality and Safety Commission.
With Mother’s Day coming up don’t forget to have your plan B in case we can’t open. Delivery of gifts may occur during office hours and be sure to label with all details and enclose in a washable plastic bag so that it can be sanitised. Do not leave any items after 4:30 pm as we cannot guarantee delivery or security of items left outdoors.
If you require additional information please call reception 49350300 during office hours.
Stay safe and well.
Yours sincerely,
Viv Allanson
CEO