STERLING, Kan. — The staff at Sterling Village believed they were meeting and even exceeding protocols that prevent the spread of COVID-19. Now they have confirmation their beliefs were justified.
Zero deficiencies were found during a recent on-site survey at the short-term rehab and long-term-care residence, 204 W. Washington. The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services conducted the survey, which focused on targeted infection control/COVID-19.
“We have worked so hard to keep on top of the ever-changing rules and regulations,” said Lauren Saenz, director of nursing. “Our team is amazing in its determination to keep our elders healthy and safe.
“Everyone in every department has been great about going with the flow with each new regulation. They love our elders and are able and willing to do whatever needs to be done. They have shown their true colors.”
The state surveyors reviewed all policies and procedures related to COVID-19. “In the process,” Saenz noted, “they monitored our practices to ensure we are doing everything in our power to prevent the spread of the virus.”
For example, surveyors observed Sterling Village’s: screening process; personal-protective-equipment procedures; hand-hygiene practices; all processes pertaining to dining and other activities; and basic care services.
“During this global pandemic, Sterling Village staff members screen everyone at the entrance on the west side of the building and masks are required for everybody,”
Saenz said. “If anyone exhibits respiratory symptoms, they are automatically isolated until COVID-19 test results are available.
“These are just a couple of examples of our stringent protocols during this trying time. I love this team.”
But it is not just Sterling Village employees who deserve credit for the zero-deficiencies survey results, the director of nursing emphasized.
“Our whole community has our heartfelt appreciation for everything they have done to support Sterling Village,” Saenz said. “Recent months have been tough for elders and their families. We hope for continued progress and look forward to eventually opening our doors.”
Facetime, Skype and other services are helpful for visits, while telemedicine is available for some doctors’ appointments, Saenz noted, adding she appreciates everyone’s cooperation.
Karen Smith, Sterling Village administrator, said she is proud of the role each person played in achieving the survey results.
“Everyone has been diligent in keeping our elders safe and healthy,” Smith said. “We have offered a lot of advanced education with staff and elders regarding infection prevention and safety measures.
“Thankfully, we have not had a positive COVID case in our community,” she added. “However, we cannot let our guard down. We must continue these best practices during our re-opening phases.”
Smith noted she will share more information about these phases in the near future.