As of March 13, visits to all skilled nursing centers – Ciena Healthcare included – have been restricted by the federal government, with the exception of certain compassionate care circumstances such as an end-of-life situation. For more information, visit the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid website. We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
**July 6 Update** We want to thank you again for your patience and understanding as we continue to navigate the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic. As many of you are now aware, Governor Whitmer recently issued an Executive Order (EO), with guidance from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services regarding visitation in skilled nursing facilities. However, the EO restricts family visitation to only a few specific circumstances, meaning many family and friends of our residents will remain unable to enter our facilities.
According to the EO, facilities may permit in-person visitation only in the following circumstances:
A. The visit supports activities of daily living (“ADLs”) or are necessary to ensure effective communication with individuals with hearing, vision or speech impairments and are limited to arrangements that:
- Existed prior to March 14, 2020, or become necessary in light of a change in the resident’s condition, such as refusing to eat, that could be improved with assistance from a resident support person; and
- Involve a family member or friend assisting a resident with activities of daily living, such as feeding the resident to encourage and ensure adequate nutrition; and
- Require the visitor to wear a mask at all times and use appropriate procedures for the assigned ADL tasks, with the facility ensuring compliance through training or observation; and
- Are scheduled in advance for specific and individualized ADL tasks; and
- Occur in the resident’s room, if private, or in a room designated by the facility; and
B. When a resident is in “serious or critical condition or in hospice care” consistent with Executive Order 2020-136.
Ciena Healthcare is committed to effective communication during this unprecedented time in our history. We regularly apprise residents, families, and employees to changes in facility status and policy as needed and as deemed appropriate. This COVID-19 Resources page is an extension of these efforts and also serves as a means to update the communities we serve.
We have been humbled by the support we’ve received from the local community and we truly appreciate everyone’s continued cooperation and understanding.
Background
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued "QSO-20-29-NH" on May 6, 2020, with the subject "Interim Final Rule Updating Requirements for Notification of Confirmed and Suspected COVID-19 Cases Among Residents and Staff in Nursing Homes." It is expected that on May 9, 2020, CMS will publish an interim final rule with a comment period.
In summary, the memorandum states: "In an effort to support surveillance of COVID-19 cases and increase transparency for residents, their representatives and families, CMS has established reporting for confirmed or suspected COVID-19 cases at §483.80(g3) as follows:
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Inform residents, their representatives, and families of those residing in facilities by 5 p.m. the next calendar day following the occurrence of either a single confirmed infection of COVID-19, or three or more residents or staff with new-onset of respiratory symptoms occurring within 72 hours of each other. This information must:
- Not include personally identifiable information.
- Include information on mitigating actions implemented to prevent or reduce the risk of transmission, including if normal operations of the facility will be altered.
- Include any cumulative updates for residents, their representatives, and families at least weekly or by 5 p.m. the next calendar day following the subsequent occurrence of either: each time a confirmed infection of COVID-19 is identified, or whenever three or more residents or staff with new onset of respiratory symptoms occur within 72 hours of each other.
CMS goes on to state: "We understand that state and local health departments may currently require nursing homes to report certain COVID-19 related information to them. A key difference between the state/local reporting and this new national reporting requirement is that reporting to state/local health departments allows them to understand the status of their local environment and intervene (e.g., direct staffing and supplies), whereas this national requirement provides standardized information to assist with national surveillance on the status of COVID-19 in all nursing homes."
The regulation states, "there are a variety of ways that facilities can meet this requirement… such as web postings. We do not expect facilities to make individual telephone calls to each resident's family or their responsible party to inform them that a resident in the facility has laboratory-confirmed COVID-19. However, we expect facilities to take reasonable efforts to make it easy for residents, their representatives, and families to obtain the information facilities are required to provide."
Our Reporting Notification Process
Our facility strives to continue its efforts for transparency in communications with all interested stakeholders. It is in this effort we are creating a place for residents, families and responsible parties and our associates to look to for updated facility-specific information.
Our communication will include information on mitigating actions we are taking to prevent or reduce the risk of transmission, which can be found on this resources page.
Our data will never include personally identifiable information. It will include information about our residents and staff for the following aspects of COVID-19 reporting:
- New Onset of Respiratory Symptoms -- The number of staff/residents newly identified as exhibiting respiratory symptoms of COVID-19 as defined by the CDC on that day.
- Confirmed Infection of COVID-19 -- The number of staff/residents with whom their first positive result was received utilizing an FDA-approved COVID-19 test kit on that day.
- New Onset Respiratory Symptoms Over the Last 7 Days -- The cumulative number over the last 7 days of the new onset of respiratory symptoms for staff/residents.
- Total of Confirmed Infections of COVID-19 -- The cumulative number of confirmed infections of COVID-19 for staff/residents currently at the facility as of today.
- Recovered from Infection of COVID-19 -- Resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications with progressive improvement or resolution of other symptoms since May 1, 2020.
- Cumulative Confirmed Infections of COVID-19 -- The cumulative number of confirmed infections of COVID-19 for staff/residents since May 1, 2020 regardless of whether or not the infections are still active.
We expect to update our data according to the guidance which is by 5 p.m. the next calendar day following the occurrence of either a single confirmed infection of COVID-19, or three or more residents or staff with new-onset of respiratory symptoms occurring within 72 hours of each other. Further, we will include a cumulative update at least weekly.
Our Commitment
Our facility is committed to providing updated and current information for our residents, families and responsible parties and associates. To these important stakeholders, if at any time you have questions about the information you see on our website or would like to discuss it further, please reach out to the Administrator of this facility.
**UPDATE** Beginning June 22, this facility will conduct COVID-19 testing in compliance with the June 15 Emergency Order from MDHHS Director Robert Gordon. The testing guidance released requires all skilled nursing facilities in the state of Michigan to conduct COVID-19 testing as follows:
- Initial testing of all residents and staff
- Testing of all new or returning residents during intake and routine quarantine of new residents
- Testing any resident or staff member with symptoms or suspected exposure
- Weekly testing of all residents and staff in facilities with any positive cases among residents or staff, until 14 days after the last new positive
- Testing of all staff in Regions 1 through 5 and 7, at least once between the date of this order and July 3, 2020
- Weekly testing of all staff in regions of medium risk or higher on the MI Safe Start Map
The text above was last updated on: June 19, 2020
Our facility is taking appropriate measures, consistent with the guidelines and directives from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS), for the prevention and control of Coronavirus (COVID-19). COVID-19 is a viral infection that is caused by a distinct Coronavirus. The incubation period is two to fourteen (2-14) days, with the average being four (4) to five (5) days. This virus may be mild, moderate, or severe, and can be potentially life threatening.
This facility endeavors to follow CDC and CMS guidance and to collaborate with State and Local health departments in its mitigating actions as we work through the necessary response to this unprecedented pandemic together.
Visitation and Family Communications Efforts
As of March 13, 2020, visits to all skilled nursing centers – ours included – have been restricted by the federal government, with the exception of certain compassionate care circumstances such as an end-of-life situation. We apologize for this inconvenience and thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
The facility has taken measures to provide virtual visits with loved ones, virtual family council meetings, and an enhanced facility website for increased communications during this period of restricted visits.
Screening Efforts
All associates, essential health care vendors and emergent visitors will be screened and documented as directed by CDC and CMS guidance.
Our staff is monitoring residents daily for change in condition, including the presence of elevated temperatures and respiratory illness in our facility. Any residents showing signs consistent with the virus are monitored each shift or more frequently as needed.
Staff are being screened for elevated temperature and respiratory illness prior to and after each shift, and we are requiring staff to stay home if they are sick or display symptoms of the virus.
Mitigating Actions Implemented to Prevent or Reduce the Risk of Transmission
The facility has several measures in place to prevent or reduce the risk of transmission, including, but not all-inclusive, as follows:
- Taking temperature readings for all associates, residents, and essential visitors per CDC guidelines.
- Monitoring for CDC-recognized symptoms including respiratory symptoms which may include cough, shortness of breath/difficulty breathing.
- Suspending non-essential group outings.
- Limiting communal dining as needed.
- Reviewing resident activities on a case-by-case basis to safely provide socialization and engagement opportunities.
- Applying social distancing of six feet for any required group engagement.
- Consideration to room placement for a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis, per CDC guidance.
- Source control for residents to include wearing a facemask or cloth covering per CDC guidance.
- The use of PPE according to CDC guidelines.
- Environmental/cleaning standard facility procedures followed per regulation and guidance.
Reminding those in our facility that they must:
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Observe "social distancing" whenever possible.
- Use of a mask as indicated or appropriate.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when sick or when a loved one is sick.
- Cover their cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash hands.
Last updated: May 28, 2020
How has Ciena worked to stop the potential spread of COVID-19?
- Our facility has been implementing and acting on guidance from external agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), and the Department of Health and Human Services at the state and local level since February 28, 2020.
- We have restricted visitors from entering our facility since the national advisement in mid-March, ceased group activities within the building, and have continually monitored residents and screened staff members and essential external personnel for symptoms according to CDC guidance.
- We are continually monitoring ALL residents for CDC-recognized symptoms and changes in conditions.
What happens if a resident tests positive for COVID-19?
- Residents who have tested positive receive supportive care in an appropriate care setting per CDC guidance. If additional treatment for a resident is required, we will transfer to the local hospital and communicate with loved ones accordingly.
Will the facility update me on the status of my loved one during visitation restrictions?
- If you have a loved one who has tested positive, we will communicate with you regularly and keep you apprised of any changes to his or her health. You are also welcome to call or email the facility at any time.
- If you have a loved one who has NOT tested positive, we will contact you if he or she is suspected or diagnosed with COVID-19.
How can I stay in contact with my loved one during visitation restrictions?
- You can send non-urgent messages – photos, updates, letters – to connecttoregencyatwestland@cienafacilities.com. A member of our staff checks this email daily and will relay your message to your loved one.
- We also encourage you to contact our facility to set up FaceTime, Zoom and Skype sessions with your loved one.
Why hasn't the facility tested my loved one for COVID-19?
- The attending physician, in conjunction with the county health department, is given ultimate decision authority by CDC and makes the decision on who and who not to test. It is not a decision made by administrative staff at the facility.
- It is important that we share our belief that skilled nursing facilities should be a higher priority for testing; that is, "universal testing" of both residents and staff to truly know the extent of COVID-19 in our community and throughout the state. Testing only those who are symptomatic, as we understand now, is not enough as many people who have the virus can spread it without showing symptoms (asymptomatic).
Does Ciena have PPE?
- You probably have heard about PPE shortages in the news. PPE stands for Personal Protective Equipment. Early on, PPE was in drastic shortages. We have been fortunate that our company has been able to secure PPE, though we have had to wait for what has seemed like a very long time to receive our supplies. With conservative practices in place as identified by CDC, we have PPE. Of course, it never feels like enough, but we have what we need today.
- That being said, we are in support of the goal to make skilled nursing facilities a higher priority for PPE. In lieu of PPE, items like homemade masks, aprons, lab coats, open-back gowns, coveralls, and ponchos – to name a few – can be used as alternatives to provide some level of protection, with CDC guidance and recommendations. We continue to accept donations of these items in the event future PPE shortages arise.
Why are skilled nursing facilities like Ciena continually in the news?
- Unfortunately, much of what you hear about skilled nursing facilities (or "nursing homes") in the media today is negative. By and large, news outlets are not familiar with our health care setting or the services we provide, and it is reflected in how they report and cover our facilities. Rest assured, our team is full of caring and compassionate individuals who are working day and night to care for our residents and that is our priority.
- We encourage you to follow us on Facebook to see the many positive things happening in our facilities that often go unreported. Our employees remain committed to "exceeding expectations" even in an unprecedented time like this. Please feel free to leave a positive comment of encouragement or even share the positive vibes.
How can I stay informed of what is happening at the facility?
- Please be sure your contact information, including email address, is current. If you need to make changes or confirm your information, please call the facility.
- Periodically visit the facility website to see if there has been new information posted.
- Watch for opportunities to attend virtual gatherings, such as care plan meetings, family council meetings or other activities, some of which may be held by platforms such as Zoom.
- Schedule a window visit or virtual visit with your loved one. Our staff will be happy to assist you.
Last updated: May 28, 2020
At Ciena, there is nothing we take more seriously than the safety and well being of our guests and our dedicated associates who care for them. We are doing everything in our power to keep your loved ones safe and healthy during this crisis.
Connect with Your Loved One!
- You can send non-urgent messages – photos, updates, letters – to connecttoregencyatwestland@cienafacilities.com. A member of our staff checks this email daily and will relay your message to your loved one.
- We also encourage you to contact our facility to set up FaceTime, Zoom and Skype sessions with your loved one.
Additional Resources
#CareNotCOVID - Share a message of support to our nursing home and assisted living residents
How to Protect Yourself and Others
LARA Health Care Facility Complaint Form
LETTER - Family Communication - Michigan Visitation & Gov Order - 7-6-2020
Medicare Scam Alert - CMS warning to Medicare beneficiaries
Additional Resources
American Health Care Association COVID-19 Page
Center for Disease Control & Prevention COVID-19 Information
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid COVID-19 Page
Department of Health and Human Services COVID-19 Page
June 15 MDHHS Emergency Order on Skilled Nursing Facility Testing
Just The Facts: What Caused COVID-19 Outbreak in Nursing Homes?
New York Times COVID-19 Tracker
Health Care Association of Michigan COVID-19 Page
Michigan Department of Health and Human Services COVID-19 Page
Thank our "Health Care Heroes"!
- Our associates have been working extremely hard under extraordinarily stressful circumstances. We are so proud of these individuals and the community should be as well. Phone calls, social media messages and words of thanks are welcomed and encouraged.
You might also consider:
- Coordination of a vehicle parade, clap-in or clap-out.
- These are very popular efforts currently taken by those offering support from the sidelines. If you would like to spearhead one of these events for the facility, please contact the Administrator who will provide you with some tips.
- Writing a heart-felt letter of appreciation.
- There's no better way to share your appreciation than to drop a card or write a note to facility staff. If you're so inclined and like to write, consider a favorable letter to the editor of your local newspaper or a post worthy of sharing. Positivity is contagious and we appreciate every effort in sharing positivity with our staff and residents.
Donations
Donations don't have to be big to be meaningful! Please consider a donation to our facility, a healthcare worker you know, your local hospital, public health department or other skilled nursing and assisted living facilities.
We will accept:
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Donations of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that is approved by the CDC:
- N95 or K95 Masks
- Isolation Gowns
- Face Shields
- Goggles
- Gloves
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Donations of PPE alternatives in the event of shortages:
- Homemade masks
- Disposable laboratory coats
- Reuseable (washable) patient gowns
- Reuseable (washable) laboratory coats
- Disposable aprons
- Long sleeve aprons
- Open back gowns
- Protective coveralls
- Sleeve covers
- Shoe Covers/Head Covers
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Donations of food for lunch, dinner or snacks for our healthcare workers
- It is recommended that food donations be prepared from a known restaurant and provided in a sealed container through a contact-less interaction.
Last updated: May 8, 2020