Edition 16

It is getting Cold!

It is getting colder outside, and unfortunately, it is also getting colder inside! We have heating issues related to the construction project that are still unresolved. The teams from Swinerton, McKinstry, and Trane are all working to get it figured out, but we have a few areas of the AC/ED that were are unable to control, and the St. Martin’s building has an undiagnosed issue. Hang in there, and hopefully we have it resolve soon.

Extended Care Survey:

Last month the EC had surveyors in-house, and now Kim and her team are working on the plan of corrections. In nursing homes, the deficiencies are graded on severity and scope and can impact ratings, future payment, ability to conduct new admissions, and monetary fines.

A few highlights (lowlights?) from the findings:

• Ensuring comprehensive assessments and care plans are completed fully and timely

• Hand hygiene opportunities

• Facility issues with damaged paint and wall penetrations

• Emergency/Disaster drills were missing some documentation

We had a great survey, and I’m very proud of the team. The issues that the surveyors identified were of the less severe type, and the team is already addressing them.

Public Records:

The recent public records request has created a lot of questions, particularly about the use of personal devices. Teresa Webber is our Public Records Officer and is best suited to answer any questions, but you can also reference the Public Records Policy.

Cerner:

Kelsey sent out two emails today to kick off Operation Cerner! Check out that message, and if you missed the survey from the project management team, you can find it here: Survey

Happy Holidays:

I’m excited to see the Department Christmas trees starting to get put up, and I’m looking forward to our Holiday Party on December 18th, where we will recognize employees with length of service awards.

From my family to yours, Merry Christmas

Its not every year you get to pose with an angry Santa!