COVID-19 and the Severe Impact on Long-Term Care Homes and Nursing Homes

The past couple of weeks have revealed how frail and vulnerable those in long-term care homes (LTCHs) and nursing homes are to COVID-19. The truth is the residents in LTCHs and nursing homes are likely older, frailer and/or have complex medical conditions. Moreover, residents with chronic lung or neurological diseases are at specifically more risk because their conditions impair their ability to clear secretions from their lungs and airways. Respiratory infections can be more easily

Unfortunately, the current number of deaths has suggested that elderly individuals and those with underlying health conditions are at an increased risk of severe outcomes in the event they become diagnosed with COVID-19. According to the Ministry of Health, LTCHs and nursing homes should conduct active screenings of all residents and healthcare workers, students, and volunteers.

Currently, only essential visitors should be permitted to enter and must continue to be actively screened when entering these settings.

The current precautions for preventing the spread of COVID-19 are to use the following:

• Surgical/procedure mask
• Isolation gown
• Gloves
• Eye protection (goggles/face shield)

There have been LTCHs and nursing homes here in Ontario, as well as across the country that have shown signs of spread amongst LTCH and nursing home residents at an alarming rate. At the LTCH in Bobcaygeon, Ontario, so far approximately one-third of its residents have died due to COVID-19.

If LTCHs or nursing homes have not followed the necessary safety protocols, there may be claims of negligence against them for wrongful death or the loss of a loved one.

It is important that the general public acknowledge the importance of staying home and not visiting the more vulnerable residents of LTCHs and nursing homes.

Please stay safe during this quarantine, from everyone at JEWELL RADIMISIS JORGE LLP.