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  • State Update
    • Jun 2

HHSC Update: LTCR NF Activities - Positive COVID-19 Cases

This is a subset of the information included in the LTC Regulatory NF COVID-19 Response Plan (v3.1 6/2/20). Revisions from the prior version are indicated in red text.

HHSC Long-term Care Regulatory Activities with NFs that have Positive COVID-19 Cases

For a report of a positive COVID-19 test (resident or staff) in a NF, HHSC will take the following steps:

  • Verify the NF is prohibiting non-essential visitors.

  • Generate a priority 1 intake (must be investigated within 24 hours).

  • Conduct a focused review of facility infection control processes.

  • Communicate with the local health department/local health authority and DSHS.

  • Determine the number of residents suspected or positive for COVID-19.

  • Determine the number of staff suspected or positive for COVID-19.

  • Review facility isolation precautions and determine how residents are isolated in the facility (dedicated wing, private room) to ensure compliance with requirements.

  • Verify that upon the first positive test result of a NF staff member or resident, the facility worked with local health authorities, DSHS, and HHSC to coordinate testing of all NF staff and residents.

  • Determine that all staff suspected or positive for COVID-19 have been sent home and the facility knows to coordinate any return to work with the local health department.

  • Determine if facilities have sufficient PPE.

  • Determine if facilities are screening residents and staff, and at what frequency.

  • Determine if others (contract staff, family members) are also being tested.

  • Determine if there is a control or quarantine order.

  • Ensure the control/quarantine orders are followed.

  • Perform a call-down to all other facilities in the county when staff at one facility tests positive for COVID-19.

  • Determine if facilities are following rules and regulations related to admission and discharge and are readmitting residents when appropriate.

  • Determine if staff, residents, and families are notified of positive COVID- 19 cases in the facility.

  • Track facilities by program type and number of positive and suspected cases.

  • Track hospitalizations of COVID-19 positive NF residents.

  • Track deaths of COVID-19 positive NF residents.

  • Maintain communication with facilities after investigations are complete.

Read the full Response Plan Here:

https://hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/doing-business-with-hhs/provider-portal/long-term-care/nf/covid-response-nursing-facilities.pdf