Dear Family and Friends,
Weekly Update 9-25-20

We have completed testing on 9-22-20 and have received all of the results back on staff and residents. As of 9/25/2020, we have needed to add additional residents to our Covid unit from that testing; resulting in 27 total residents currently residing on our positive Covid-19 unit. A total of 4 additional staff tests were returned positive this week; giving a total of 12 staff members and 3 contracted staff since the beginning of the pandemic. We have reached out to family representatives and provided verbal notification for all residents that have tested positive. Our next round of testing will be conducted Tuesday 9-29-20 and we expect results 48-72 hours after testing.

It is with our deepest sympathy that Guardian Angels inform you that on Wednesday, Sept. 23rd, a resident who had tested positive for COVID-19, passed away. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time. We know that keeping you informed is a key responsibility for our team. Each week, we provide you with an update on the number of residents and staff who have been impacted and the steps we’re taking in the attempt to stop this virus. Please know we follow all the guidance set forth by privacy, patient care, staff safety, and efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19. Families are continually notified of their loved one’s condition. We are bound by federal guidelines under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which protect the privacy of our residents.

Our top priority is to keep everyone safe and healthy. We are collaborating with our Medical Director and the Minnesota Department of Health and are following all recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to ensure we are taking all appropriate steps at this time. The COVID unit is segregated from the rest of our community. The designated staff that care for residents in this unit remain within the area and do not have physical contact with other non-segregated residents. Our staff are equipped with specific training and PPE to continue to provide safe quality care, services, and support to the residents of our community.

Thank you for your support and understanding as we get through this together. It is during these times that I am so grateful for our community’s positive spirit that shines through every day—with residents, with staff, and with family and friends. If you have questions, please contact Shane P. Roche at 218-231-8106.