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Bedford

Halifax

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Long Term Care– January 25, 2022.

Dear Residents and Families,

As you are aware, the number of individuals with COVID-19 in Nova Scotia continues to grow. As a result, we continue to have exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses.

Halifax Campus Long Term Care: Due to the number of contacts with positive or exposed staff and DCGs, residents on all floors at our Halifax campus continue to stay on restrictions, isolating on their floor. We are continuing with the precautionary facility-wide resident swabbing strategy for all floors in both buildings regardless of exposure status. We continue to have recoveries and new positive cases. There are a total of 4 residents at our Halifax Campus who have active COVID-19. These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. These individuals are isolating in their rooms.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

Bedford Campus Long Term care: As a result of ongoing exposures to a COVID-19 positive or presumptive COVID-19 positive individual (DCGs, staff) residents on an additional home are on restrictions, isolating in their home. There is  1 resident who has active COVID-19 in Bedford. This residents is vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. This individual is isolating in their room.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

We are continuing to work with Public Health through each case and have implemented all required protocols. We are following Public Health’s recommendations for added testing and precautions for any residents or staff who are considered close contacts – including isolation and swabbing. 

  • DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
  • All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
  • We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.  

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines:  Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Long Term Care– January 24, 2022.

Dear Residents and Families,

As you are aware, the number of individuals with COVID-19 in Nova Scotia continues to grow. As a result, we continue to have exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses.

Halifax Campus Long Term Care: Due to the number of contacts with positive or exposed staff and DCGs, residents on all floors at our Halifax campus continue to stay on restrictions, isolating on their floor. We are continuing with the precautionary facility-wide resident swabbing strategy for all floors in both buildings regardless of exposure status. We continue to have recoveries and new positive cases. There are a total of 3 residents at our Halifax Campus who have active COVID-19. These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. These individuals are isolating in their rooms.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

Bedford Campus Long Term care: As a result of ongoing exposures to a COVID-19 positive or presumptive COVID-19 positive individual (DCGs, staff) residents on several homes continue to stay on restrictions, isolating in their home. There is  1 resident who has active COVID-19 in Bedford. This residents is vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. This individual isolating in their room.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

We are continuing to work with Public Health through each case and have implemented all required protocols. We are following Public Health’s recommendations for added testing and precautions for any residents or staff who are considered close contacts – including isolation and swabbing. 

  • DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
  • All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
  • We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.  

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines:  Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Long Term Care– January 20, 2022.

Dear Residents and Families,

As you are aware, the number of individuals with COVID-19 in Nova Scotia continues to grow. As a result, we continue to have exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses.

Halifax Campus Long Term Care: Due to the number of contacts with positive or exposed staff and DCGs, residents on all floors at our Halifax campus continue to stay on restrictions, isolating on their floor. We are continuing with the precautionary facility-wide resident swabbing strategy for all floors in both buildings regardless of exposure status. There are a total of 3 residents at our Halifax Campus who have active COVID-19. These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. These individuals are isolating in their rooms.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM). 

Bedford Campus Long Term Care: As a result of ongoing exposures to a COVID-19 positive or presumptive COVID-19 positive individual (DCGs, staff) residents on several homes continue to stay on restrictions, isolating in their home. We received test results from our swabbing process that we now have 1 positive resident. This resident is vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. This individual is isolating in their room.

Any resident who tests positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

We have been advised today by the Department of Seniors & Long Term Care (DSLTC) that access to Rapid Test kits is discontinued for Designated Caregivers who are visiting. This change went into effect this morning. Symptomatic DCGs should access PCR or rapid testing in the community. If the test is positive, they must not visit the LTCF for 10 days.

• Asymptomatic DCGs do not require rapid antigen testing to enter LTC facilities but must continue to be screened and to adhere to all IPAC protocols.

We are continuing to work with Public Health through each case and have implemented all required protocols. We are following Public Health’s recommendations for added testing and precautions for any residents or staff who are considered close contacts – including isolation and swabbing. 

  • DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
  • All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
  • We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.  

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines:  Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancin20

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Long Term Care– January 19, 2022.

Dear Residents and Families,

As you are aware, the number of individuals with COVID-19 in Nova Scotia continues to grow. As a result, we continue to have exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses.

Halifax Long Term Care: Due to the number of contacts with positive or exposed staff and DCGs, residents on all floors at our Halifax campus continue to stay on restrictions, isolating on their floor. We are continuing with the precautionary facility-wide resident swabbing strategy for all floors in both buildings regardless of exposure status.

There are a total of 4 residents at our Halifax Campus who are active COVID-19 cases. These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. These individuals are isolating in their rooms.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

Bedford Long Term care: As a result of exposure with an individual who is COVID-19 positive, residents on several homes continue to stay on restrictions, isolating in their home.

We are continuing to work with Public Health through each case and have implemented all required protocols. We are following Public Health’s recommendations for added testing and precautions for any residents or staff who are considered close contacts – including isolation and swabbing. 

  • DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
  • All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
  • It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test before entering and within 24 hours of entering the facility.
  • We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.  

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines:  Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

 

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

Jan 17, 2022- Northwood Home Support Program- COVID-19 Update

With the growing number of individuals who are testing positive for COVID-19 in our communities, the risk of our staff being exposed to COVID-19 in the community continues to grow.

We currently have 8 staff who are considered active COVID-19 cases. Staff members who test positive are removed from their schedules and are advised to follow isolation protocols and are placed off work immediately. Staff who report they are experiencing respiratory symptoms are removed from their schedule and are advised to complete testing for COVID-19. When staff report they have been a close contact with someone from the community, they are not able to work until follow up testing is completed. As a result, there are currently more than 100 staff who are temporarily unable to provide service to their clients. This may result in temporary service delays and /or service reduction/disruption.

We apologize for the additional burden this places on our clients and their families as the safety for our clients and staff is our priority.

Because. COVID-19 is so prevalent in the community and many individuals themselves do not always know they are positive for COVID-19, in this environment we ask every staff member to be extremely cautious in every home, following strict COVID-19 protocols including wearing Personal Protective Equipment (masks, face shields gloves as well as gowns when appropriate e.g. during personal care) at all times.

We do continue to serve clients who are COVID-19 positive. This is often a time that they need us most!

Our staff are experts at COVID-19 protocols. When these protocols are followed, the experience has been that the risk of transmission is minimal.

Every situation of a positive case or symptomatic client or staff is reported and investigated and follow up completed when necessary.

If any of our staff report a breach of COVID-19 protocols in a high risk home, the client and or their family are contacted if they are deemed to be at risk of exposure to COVID-19.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – January 17, 2022.
 
Dear Residents and Families,
 
As you are aware, the number of individuals with COVID-19 in Nova Scotia continues to grow. As a result, we continue to have exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses. While we have had a number of staff recoveries, we continue to have new staff that are either positive or a close contact of someone who is positive.
 
Due to the number of contacts, we are receiving from staff and DCGs, all floors at our Halifax campus continue to stay on restrictions. We have a number of homes on isolation at our Bedford campus.
 
We have had a number of resident recoveries and one new positive resident in Halifax. There are a total of 3 residents at our Halifax Campus with active COVID-19.  
 
These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms.
 
Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) .
 
We are continuing to work with Public Health through each case and have implemented all required protocols. We are following Public Health’s recommendations for added testing and precautions for any residents or staff who are considered close contacts – including isolation and swabbing.
 
  • DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
 
  • All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
 
  • It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test before entering and within 24 hours of entering the facility.
 
  • We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks. 
Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines:  Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.
 
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
 
Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:
 
Cough (new or worsening)
 
Fever (chills, sweats)
 
Headache
 
Runny nose or nasal congestion
 
Sore throat
 
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
 
Diarrhea and Vomiting
 

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD

Jan 14, 2022- Northwood Home Support Program

Northwood is contracted by the Department of Seniors and Long Term Care to provide home support services in HRM and Hants West. In the program, our team of CCAs provide personal care, respite, palliative care, meal preparation etc. to support our clients to remain in their own home. We are currently supporting more than 1500 clients across these communities. We normally have over 450 staff.

With the growing number of individuals who are testing positive for COVID-19 in our communities, the risk of our staff being exposed to COVID-19 in the community continues to grow.

There have been 31 staff who have tested positive for COVID-19, many have now recovered. Staff members who test positive are removed from their schedules and are advised to follow isolation protocols and are placed off work immediately. Staff who report they are experiencing respiratory symptoms are removed from their schedule and are advised to complete testing for COVID-19. When staff report they have had close contact with someone from the community, they are not able to work until follow up testing is completed. As a result, there are currently more than 120 staff who are temporarily unable to provide service to their clients. This may result in temporary service delays and /or service reduction/disruption. 

We apologize for the additional burden this places on our clients and their families as the safety for our clients and staff is our priority.  

Because COVID-19 is so prevalent in the community and many individuals themselves do not always know they are positive for COVID-19, in this environment, we ask every staff member to be extremely cautious in every home, following strict COVID-19 protocols including wearing Personal Protective Equipment (masks and face shields as well as gowns when appropriate) at all times.  

We do continue to serve clients who are COVID-19 positive. This is often a time that they need us most!

Our staff are experts at COVID-19 protocols. When these protocols are followed, the experience has been that the risk of transmission is minimal.

Every situation of a positive case or symptomatic client or staff is reported and investigated, with follow up completed when necessary.   

If any of our staff report a breach of COVID-19 protocols in a high risk home, the client and or their family are contacted if they are deemed to be at risk of exposure to COVID-19.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – January 12, 2022.

Dear Residents and Families,

As you are aware, the number of individuals with COVID-19 in Nova Scotia continues to grow. As a result, we continue to have exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses.

Due to the number of contacts, we are receiving from staff and DCGs, all floors at our Halifax campus continue to stay on restrictions.

There are a total of 6 residents at our Halifax Campus who are active COVID-19 cases. These residents live on 4 different units in the facility.

These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) .

We are continuing to work with Public Health through each case and have implemented all required protocols. We are following Public Health’s recommendations for added testing and precautions for any residents or staff who are considered close contacts – including isolation and swabbing.

  • DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
  • All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
  • It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test before entering and within 24 hours of entering the facility.
  • We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.  

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines:  Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – January 10, 2022.

Dear Residents and Families,

As you are aware, the number of individuals with COVID-19 in Nova Scotia continues to grow. As a result, we continue to have exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses.

Bedford Campus residents will continue to be swabbed if they have had an exposure in consultation with Public Health. 

Due to the number of contacts we are receiving from staff and DCGs, all floors continue to stay on restrictions. We are beginning a precautionary swabbing schedule for all Halifax Campus residents. 

There is a total of 4 residents at our Halifax Campus who are active COVID-19 cases. These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms.

Those who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified including their SDM.

We are continuing to work with Public Health through each case and have implemented all required protocols. We are following Public Health’s recommendations for added testing and precautions for any residents or staff who are considered close contacts – including isolation and swabbing. 

  • DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
  • All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
  • It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test before entering and within 24 hours of entering the facility.
  • We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.  

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines:  Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing, and proper masking are required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – January 6, 2022.

Dear Residents and Families,

As you are aware, the number of individuals with COVID-19 in Nova Scotia continues to grow. As a result, we continue to have exposures within our Halifax Campus this week. Due to the number of contacts we are receiving from staff and DCGs, all floors continue to stay on restrictions.

There is now a total of 9 residents on one unit who have tested positive. Residents are vaccinated with a few showing minor symptoms.

Those who are positive and/or are close contacts have been notified including their SDM.

We are continuing to work with Public Health through each case and have implemented all required protocols. We are following Public Health’s recommendations for added testing and precautions for any residents or staff who are considered close contacts – including isolation and swabbing. 

  • DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
  • All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
  • It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test before entering and within 24 hours of entering the facility.
  • We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.  

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines:  Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – January 2, 2021.

Dear Residents and Families,

Over the last several days we have had COVID-19 positive staff and DCGs at both our Halifax and Bedford campuses. 

Additional residents on an isolated floor have tested positive for COVID. There are now a total of 6 residents who have tested positive. Residents are vaccinated and are not experiencing any symptoms. 

Those who are positive and/or are close contacts have been notified including their SDM.

We are continuing to work with Public Health through each case and have implemented all required protocols. We are following Public Health’s recommendations for added testing and precautions for any residents or staff who are considered close contacts – including isolation and swabbing. 

  • All staff and DCG’s are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
  • It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid testbefore entering and within 24 hours of entering the facility.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines:  Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – December 31, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Over the last several days we have had COVID-19 positive staff and DCGs at both our Halifax and Bedford campuses. 

In Halifax, we currently have residents on 1 Center, 4 Manor and 7 Manor in isolation.

A resident on an isolated unit has now tested positive. 

Those who are considered close contacts and their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) are being contacted. 

We are continuing to work with Public Health through each case and have implemented all required protocols. We are following Public Health’s recommendations for added testing and precautions for any residents or staff who are considered close contacts – including isolation and swabbing. 

· All staff and DCG’s are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.

· It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test within 24 hours of entering the facility.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines:  Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

 

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – December 29, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Over the last several days we have had covid positive staff and DCGs at both our Halifax and Bedford sites. All of our cases remain unrelated.

We are continuing to work with Public Health through each case and implement all required protocols. We will keep residents and SDMs updated on testing results. All residents who were eligible for booster doses have received their vaccine. All staff are vaccinated according to Public Health Mandates.

Strict adherence to precautions is essential and include:

  • All staff and DCG’s are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
  • It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test within 24 hours of entering the facility.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines:  Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD BEDFORD – December 27, 2021

Dear Residents and Families:

We have been advised that a Designated Care Giver (DCG) has tested positive for COVID at our Northwood Bedford Campus. We are following our protocols and are doing testing and isolation precautions for any residents or staff who are considered contacts.

We have been in consultation with Public Health and are following their recommendations for added testing and precautions for any residents or staff who are considered close contacts – including isolation and swabbing. Those who are considered close contacts or their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) are being notified.

We are continuing with the current Public Health protocols including ensuring residents receive their boosters as soon as they are eligible, added personal protective equipment, precautions  and masking for residents when they leave their homes. Current visiting will not be interrupted for residents other than those determined as close contacts.

We will provide further updates if there are any changes.

It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test within 24 hours of entering the facility.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD HALIFAX – December 27, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We have been advised that three staff members and a Designated Care Giver (DCG) have tested positive for COVID at our Northwood Halifax Campus. These positive cases are not connected.  The staff members and DCG were compliant in wearing Personal Protective Equipment including a mask and face shield.

We have been in consultation with Public Health and are following their recommendations for added testing and precautions for any residents or staff who are considered close contacts – including isolation and swabbing. Those who are considered close contacts or their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) are being notified.

We are continuing with the current Public Health protocols including ensuring residents receive their boosters as soon as they are eligible, added personal protective equipment, precautions, and masking for residents when they leave their homes.

We will provide further updates if there are any changes.

It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test within 24 hours of entering the facility.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – December 23, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We have been advised that a staff member has tested positive for COVID at our Northwood Bedford Campus. The staff member has not had symptoms and has had limited contact with residents and staff. The staff member was compliant in wearing Personal Protective Equipment including a mask and face shield.

We have been in consultation with Public Health and are following their recommendations for added testing and precautions for any residents or staff who are considered close contacts. We were informed this is not considered an outbreak situation as residents have received their booster dose.

We are continuing with the current Public Health protocols including ensuring residents receive their boosters as soon as they are eligible, added personal protective equipment, precautions, and masking for residents when they leave their homes. Current visiting will not be interrupted for residents other than those determined as contacts.

We will provide further updates if there are any changes.

Thank you for your patience and unde

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – December 22, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We have had a number of requests to change DCGs over the holidays.

Due to the resources we have with increased precautions, we have limited capacity to train and support the onboarding of new DCGs.

We will consider requests on a case by case basis. During this period of heightened precautions, the only individuals who will be considered to be a new DCG, are those who have previously visited our facilities.

Changes that are made to DCGs will be permanent unless a DCG is no longer able to fill the role. We cannot accommodate temporary changes in DCGs.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – December 21, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Today Premier Houston and Dr. Strang announced that further restrictions are required to stop the spread of COVID-19 and protect those who work and live at Northwood.

Effective at 6am Dec 22nd the following restrictions will continue or go into effect:

  • Residents are permitted to have two (2) consistent fully vaccinated visitors. Designated Care Giver’s (DCGs) are included in the total of two (2). Northwood has determined that the two (2) visitors will be the DCGs.
  • It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test within 24 hours of entering the facility.
  • Residents may only leave the facility for medical appointments. No other stops in the community are permitted and public health measures must be maintained.
  • Residents who are fully vaccinated and have received their booster dose may leave the facility to go for a drive with their DCG provided there is no contact with anyone else. Drive-thrus are permitted.
  • Residents who have not received their booster dose are not permitted to participate in group recreational activities or receive non-essential personal services from outside service providers.
  • Residents who do not have their booster dose are still able to participate in facility-based recreation not provided by outside providers.
  • A mask must continue to be worn at all times by visiting Designated Care Givers. Eating and drinking will not be permitted during visits.
  • Along with staff, DCGs will be required to wear a face shield or goggles with their masks while on floors/homes.
  • Programing such as church and larger group activities which bring people from multiple areas together are temporarily cancelled. We will be focusing on small floor/house specific programming and/or 1:1 activities.

We know this is a difficult message for many to receive especially at this time of the year.

We  continue to be grateful for those who understand and are supportive of our efforts to keep our community as safe as possible.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – December 20, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We are closely monitoring the COVID situation in our province and will continue to adapt and adjust our restrictions as needed. 

Due to increasing COVID cases and exposure notices we have made the decision to temporarily implement additional restrictions effective immediately: 

Visitors and Designated Care Givers (DCGs) must wear a mask at all times. Eating and drinking will not be permitted during the visit.

Visitors must physically distance from residents and others.

We must make all efforts to reduce risk for residents and staff to prevent the stress of isolation due to exposure. An exposure when masked is less likely than an unmasked exposure.

Programing such as church and larger group activities which bring people from multiple areas together are temporarily cancelled. We will be focusing on small floor/house specific programming and/or 1:1 activities. 

We know this is a difficult message for many to receive and we are grateful for those who understand and are supportive of our efforts to keep our community as safe as possible.

Thank you for your patience and understanding. 

 

Please complete a rapid test before entering any facility.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – December 16, 2021

Residents and Families,

Yesterday, December 15 2021, we received updated LTC guidelines. In light of these updates Northwood will be implementing the following changes on Dec 17, 2021.

  • A limit of 2 visitors and 2 DCGs at a time for each resident. The visitors do not have to be the same two visitors each time.
  • It is recommended each visitor complete a rapid test 24hrs prior to entering a facility.
  • Visitors are able to move within the facility as long as they are masked and physically distanced from others.
  • Visitors can have a quick close contact with the resident, such as a hug but after, must remain physically distanced.
  • Visitors must wear a mask at all times with the exception when eating or drinking but must remain physically distanced from resident and others.
  • Visitors are unable to attend recreation activities within the facilities at this time.
  • All residents are able to access main street/common areas but are required to wear a mask as well as physically distance from others.
  • Group activities can take place off the unit/home but residents must be masked and physically distanced to take part.  
  • Fully vaccinated residents may leave the facility for community access and overnight visits. (Strongly recommended to have booster dose completed)
  • Unvaccinated residents are able to attend medical appointments only.

All residents no matter vaccination status who take part in community access (including medical appointments) must:

  1. Isolate upon return to the facility until a PCR swab is completed. Once the result comes back negative the resident may come off isolation. Additional serial swab testing will be required on day 3 and day 6 post community access.
  2. Although a resident must be isolated in the facility a resident may continue to access the community when they are awaiting their swab result. They must have a plan to return immediately to the facility if they test positive.
  3. If a resident goes out into the community repeatedly they will be re-swabbed upon return and required to isolate until a negative result is received. The serial swabbing  requirement on day 3 and 6 will begin again from the date that they return from community.

Thank you for your patience while we work through these upcoming changes within our facilities.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – December 14, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Due to the increase in COVID-19 cases within the province and the announcement made yesterday by Premier Houston and Dr. Strang, Chief Medical Officer of Health, Northwood will be implementing the following changes on Dec 17, 2021.

  • A limit of 2 visitors at a time for each resident. These visitors do not have to be the same two visitors each time.
  • It is recommended each visitor complete a rapid test 24hrs prior to entering a facility.
  • Visitors are to remain on the unit/homes and within the resident’s room during their visit.
  • Visitors can have a quick close contact with the resident, such as a hug but after, must remain physically distanced.
  • Visitor must wear a mask at all times- no eating or drinking while visiting.
  • Visitors are unable to attend recreation activities within the facilities at this time.
  • There will be changes taking place with upcoming activities that include decreasing group sizes, encouraging residents to wear a mask when off unit and physical distancing as much as possible.
  • Resident can leave for overnight visits – the resident must be fully vaccinated (Booster dose is strongly recommend).

There may be additional changes in the following days.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – December 9, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We are pleased to announce overnight visit restrictions have been lifted for all zones within Nova Scotia as of Dec 7, 2021. All long-term care residents throughout the province may continue to leave the facilities to participate in the community.

Residents who are planning overnight visits, please contact nursing staff  so medication arrangements can be made in advance.

With the holidays approaching and families gatherings, please remember to follow public health guidelines: Masking, hand washing and physical distancing as much as possible to keep our residents safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

VIDEO CALLS

Appointments are booked for 30 minutes. The available platforms are Google Duo and FaceTime.

BEDFORD – Call 902-407-8545

HALIFAX – Call 902-719-7523

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – November 9th, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Through our ongoing screening protocols, a staff member of Northwood’s Halifax Campus was identified as positive for COVID- 19. Contact tracing is underway and we are working closely with Public Health. We are swabbing all staff and residents who were in contact with the staff member. The substitute decision maker of any resident who has been in contact with the staff member will be notified.

Public Health has not deemed this situation as an  outbreak.

Precautionary protocols have been put in place. For example,

  • General visits with the residents living in the area where the employee worked have been temporarily placed on hold. This does not include Designated Care Givers.
  • Residents living in the area have been asked not to travel off their floor.

Northwood has continued our screening, swabbing and mask wearing protocols for all those entering our buildings and vaccination is mandatory for all visitors.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – November 8, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Effective November 30, 2021 all visitors coming into our apartment buildings must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19. 

Visitors coming into our Manor or Centre building will be asked to show proof of vaccination and photo ID when being screened.  If you are not vaccinated you will be turned away. 

For visitors coming into Northwood Place, Almon Place or Northwood Towers, you can be randomly asked to provide proof by one of our employees.  Our employees are required to wear a Northwood ID badge. 

We thank-you for understanding the needs of our vulnerable clients who live at Northwood.   

PLEASE SHARE THIS INFORMATION WITH YOUR FAMILY AND VISITORS!

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – October 5, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Thank you for your patience as we work to clarify all the details of the Phase 5 changes to Long-Term Care that came into effect October 4, 2021.

We have receive clarification from the Department of Seniors and Long Term Care that effective October 4, 2021:

•         All visitors to long-term care must be fully vaccinated. Proof of vaccination must be provided by visitors who wish to visit a loved one in LTC. This does not include designated caregivers, professionals (such as lawyers or financial advisors), or children under 12 years of age.

•         Residents may not leave the facility with visitors who are not fully vaccinated. This does not include designated caregivers.

•         All LTC residents throughout the province may leave their facility to participate in activities in the community. All residents may attend overnight visits except when the overnight visit will occur in Central zone. This means residents of any zone (including central zone) may attend overnight visits that occur outside of the Central zone.

·       Facilities may make exceptions to visiting restrictions for non-vaccinated visitors in instances where the resident is palliative. Non-vaccinated visitors who attend LTC facilities to visit a palliative resident must wear a mask and follow all PPE and distancing guidelines.

As many of you are now aware, Premier Houston, Minister Thompson, and Dr. Strang, Nova Scotia’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, recently made a number of important announcements. Starting on November 30, all health care workers, DCGs, volunteers, visitors, and contractors entering all Northwood facilities will need to provide a proof of full vaccination. This will also apply to Home Care workers.

Due to rising COVID-19 numbers in Nova Scotia and especially in Central Zone, Northwood continues to follow Public Health directives. These directives are necessary to keep our residents and staff safe.

Please continue watching for updates over the coming days and weeks.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – October 1, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

As many of you are now aware, yesterday Premier Houston, Minister Thompson, and Dr. Strang, Nova Scotia’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, made a number of important announcements. Starting on November 30, all health care workers, DCGs, volunteers, visitors, and contractors entering all Northwood facilities will need to provide a proof of full vaccination. This will also apply to Home Care workers.

Due to rising COVID-19 numbers in Nova Scotia and especially in Central Zone, Northwood is following the new Public Health directives and suspending all overnight visits until further notice. This only applies to overnight visits. Residents will continue to have community access. This new directive is necessary to keep our residents and staff safe.

Please continue watching for updates over the coming days and weeks.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Dear Residents and Families,

As a follow-up to the earlier reported presumptive staff member case at our Halifax Campus, we have been informed by Public Health that this presumptive case is now confirmed as a positive COVID-19 case.

This staff member had contacts on two floors, 1 Center, and 8 Centre. All residents on these floors have been swabbed and have been placed on isolation precautions. We are diligently working with Public Health to complete contact tracing for anyone that may have had close contact with this case. Staff identified will be individually notified. It is also important to note that this staff member while working on these floors was wearing full PPE at all times. We have over 90% of our residents vaccinated and over 80% of our staff across LTC vaccinated.

We are taking full precautionary measures as directed by Public Health and will continue all of our robust infection prevention and control practices at this time, including a heightened focus on screening, hand hygiene, physical distancing, and mandatory masking and face shields in resident living areas. Our enhanced cleaning protocols continue.

We understand the impact of isolation on our residents and are very happy to say we have been supported by Public Health to resume our Designated Care Giver Program. At this time, DCGs must continue to visit one at a time. Because we have had a positive case all DCGs must wear a face shield in addition to their medical-grade mask while on the care floors. To participate in the program DCGs must be able to comply at all times with the mandated wearing of medical masks and face shields while in the facility. DCGs must also have had their COVID-19 vaccination. Over 75% of registered DCGs attended our internal DCG clinics. If a DCG has received their vaccination somewhere other than through Northwood, they will need to provide confirmation of vaccination.

We are happy to support residents and families stay connected by continuing the DCG program. Their mental health and their safety are our highest priority.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – TUESDAY, April 27, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues we would like to ensure all of our clients, residents, staff, and families that we will continue to keep you all well informed. The safety of our clients, residents, and staff is extremely important to us.

We want to inform you at this time that we have received confirmation of one presumptive case of COVID-19 in a staff member of our Halifax Campus. This individual contracted COVID-19 in the community. The staff person is now in isolation.

In response to this development, we have notified Public Health, Nova Scotia Health, and the Department of Health and Wellness. We are following Public Health direction and moving forward with contact tracing and increased swabbing/testing of residents and staff.

We are taking full precautionary measures as directed by Public Health, and will continue all of our robust infection prevention and control practices at this time, including a heightened focus on hand hygiene, physical distancing, and wearing of personal protective equipment including  universal masking and face shields. Our enhanced environmental cleaning continues. Visitation will remain closed until further notice.  The Bedford Campus Designated Caregiver Program will continue. The Halifax Campus Designated Caregiver Program has been suspended at this time.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, April 22, 2021

Good Afternoon,

As of today we have 111 active cases within the province and as they appear to be increasing with possible community spread, we need to keep our residents and staff safe. There will be some restrictions coming into effect as of 8am. Please see below:

1 – Visitors are now restricted from LTC as per Public Health Guidelines.

2 – DCGs can continue to visit their loved one and must follow all PPE protocols. DCGs are restricted to in room visits only until the community cases are under control.

3 – All volunteers are on hold until the community cases are under control.

Reminders:

  • Continuous hand washing (for visible soiling) and frequent use of hand sanitizer.
  • Maintain social distancing
  • Everyone must wear a mask prior to entering any Northwood facilities
  • Mask must be changed and medical mask applied once screened
  • Wearing masks at all times properly
    • Masks should fit over mouth and  cover nose
    • Do not dangle mask from ear
    • Do not wear mask under chin
    • Avoid touching your face and mask
  • Universal masking with a medical grade mask is required by everyone  within the facility.
  • If Mask is soiled – sanitize hands, discard mask, sanitize hands, and apply a new mask.
  • Please use elevator etiquette- check capacity that is required for each elevator.
  • If you have any symptoms, even one, go online to do a self-assessment and book an appointment- see attached link to guide you, https://covid-self-assessment.novascotia.ca/

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – TUESDAY, April 13, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Northwood’s Halifax LTC program is fortunate to have been approached to participate in a study led by Dr. Ken Rockwood Division of Geriatric Medicine to understand whether far-UVC lights can reduce airborne viruses (disinfect) and in turn reduce respiratory and other infections in nursing homes. The COVID-19 virus has shown the devastating affects infections have on the senior population especially those in communal living environments.

Please review the attached information on the study. We encourage you to contact the research team for more information on how you can be a part of this important study to help improve the Long Term Care living environment. Contact information is available on the attached documents below.

Thank you,

Dr. Barry Clarke – Medical Director

Josie Ryan – Executive Director Long Term Care

UVA Study Info April 6

UVC Study Info April 9

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, April 8, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Thank you for participating in Northwood’s COVID-19 Vaccination Campaign. We are excited to have been able to provide over 2200 vaccines at our Northwood sites.

We are awaiting approval for a last supply of vaccine to complete those Designated Caregivers currently on the wait list. We encourage everyone who has not taken advantage of our on site clinics to access their vaccine through the community distribution programs via Public Health or pharmacy clinics. We appreciate your willingness to be vaccinated to keep our community safe.

Employees will be able to access vaccinations through Nova Scotia Health by contacting Northwood’s Occupational Health Nurse. These health worker clinics will also be ending in the near future and staff will be expected to access the community clinics.

The vaccination phone line and e-mail will be closed as of Friday April 9, 2021.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, April 1, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We want to provide an update, as we understand there may be some confusion regarding the COVID-19 restrictions.

We were very fortunate to receive early access to the vaccine. The impact of the vaccine on the easement of restrictions will come when many people in the community are also vaccinated.

Thank you for your continued patience as we navigate these challenging times and work together to balance physical and mental health care needs while following provincial guidelines aimed at maintaining overall safety.

We are working as an organization on solutions to provide greater community engagement within Northwood’s walls while following Public Health guidelines. We are continuously reviewing the guidelines and will decide to ease restrictions as soon as possible. We also have to balance what is going on in the external community keeping in mind the risk variant strains of COVID pose to our internal community. Please see the Nova Scotia Website for these restrictions in more detail, found in ‘Alerts, news, and data’, and ‘Restrictions and guidance’ sections under the ‘Governments Respond to COVID-19’. https://novascotia.ca/CoronaVirus/restrictions-and-guidance/

We will continue to review resident and family requests whenever possible as well as ideas brought forward by staff members.

We are introducing changes to support:

  • Accessing courtyard/outdoor spaces on Northwood’s properties both independently and supervised by staff as appropriate.
  • Creating spaces where residents can engage in social and physical activities on main floors where we can ensure space for social distancing.
  • Creating groups of people who can consistently interact (bubble) while limiting exposure to residents and others.
  • With warmer weather and longer daylight, we will be increasing the times residents can access the main area and outdoors.
  • Increasing activities and spaces for residents to access without staff or DCG present.

We will continue to review changes and do our best to ease restrictions. If you have any specific concerns to bring forward regarding current or ongoing discussions related to restrictions, please approach your RN Clinical Leader, Client Relations Coordinator, Nursing Manager, Social Worker, or other support in which you feel comfortable. Residents may continue to provide feedback through the resident council; the recreation team ensures your voice is heard.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – TUESDAY, March 23, 2021

Dear Designated Care Givers,

We are excited to have so many of the Northwood community vaccinated, remembering we are not at 100%. While the vaccination provides another preventative measure to protect us from COVID, as we reported there continue to be cases and potential contact areas in the community. We, therefore, need to continue to strictly follow the other preventative measures such as screening and signing in, hand hygiene, wearing a mask and maintaining social distancing from staff and other residents when coming into the facilities. This means as a DCG you must remain in your loved one’s room while you are here.

We are reviewing the possibility of DCGs and resident access to the outdoors during the resident’s scheduled times off the floors. Individual times continue to be scheduled by floor to maintain internal bubbles for residents. This  would provide access to the main street area and outdoors for all residents in a safe manner.

We are happy that visiting in addition to the DCG program has resumed. We are required to follow the guidelines that were in place prior to restrictions. Visits must occur off the floors, in a central location with screening and signing in, hand hygiene, wearing a mask and maintaining social distancing from staff and other residents when coming into the facilities. With the warmer weather, we are preparing to resume outdoor visits in the coming weeks as well.

We appreciate your patience with the many changes adapting to COVID has required.  We would like to thank those who have chosen to be vaccinated to help keep our community safe. 

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – MONDAY, March 1, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

As the COVID-19 vaccine rollout continues throughout Nova Scotia we understand the public and the Northwood community including our tenants have questions. We would like to offer some additional information that might help explain the provincial rollout.

Nova Scotia’s COVID-19 immunization plan includes 3 phases. Each phase identifies when different groups can receive the vaccine. The plan is flexible to allow for increases or decreases in vaccine supply. Every person in Nova Scotia who wants the COVID-19 vaccine and for whom vaccine is indicated will receive it for free. An overview of Nova Scotia’s COVID-19 immunization plan is available here: 

COVID-19-immunization-plan-overview-poster-en (1)

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – FRIDAY, February 26, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Today the Chief Medical Officer of Health announced changes to the Public Health directives. Effective at 8 AM on Saturday, February 27 residents will only be able to receive visits from their Designated Caregivers. There will be no other visits permitted at this time.

Residents will only be permitted to leave the facility for medical appointments. Drives with their Designated Caregivers can continue as long as there are no other passengers, stops or drive-thru visits.

These restrictions will continue until 11:59 PM on Friday, March 26 with the possibility of an extension.

We value the importance family connection has on the wellbeing of residents and family. The required precautions e.g. screening, mandatory masking at all times, signing in, restricted movement within the facility must continue to be strictly followed.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, February 25, 2021

Dear residents and families,

Although the number of COVID cases remains low in Nova Scotia, we must all be vigilant to help keep all residents and staff healthy. As many may know, the list of exposure sites in the community has again started to rise. Please review the attached Community Exposure List.

Some points to remember from Dr. Strang.

  • Numbers are starting to creep back up, we have had 6 variant cases to date. Strang says he is worried about community spread, more people are socializing more with different groups of people. Based on this we do expect higher case numbers in the coming days.
  • Advice is to slow down social activities and keep the same small social circles consistently. “We are still in a pandemic.” Dr. Strang says we need to stick with this for 2-3 months longer.
  • People who go to social events where they don’t wear a mask, they should consider getting a test a week from that event.
  • The more you’re out, the more people you’re with, the more frequently you should get tested, said Strang.

Updated Exposure List for February 25 2021

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – TUESDAY, February 23, 2021

Dear residents and families,

Currently the number of COVID cases in Nova Scotia are low but we all need to stay vigilant. There is nothing more important to the Northwood community than ensuring the continued health and safety of our residents and staff. Our most important tool in the fight against COVID is the vaccine. As Northwood continues our vaccine clinics we would like to offer an update on our progress.

We are also very happy to announce that on February 22, 2021, we were advised that Home Support Workers now have access to the vaccine through the NSHA Vaccine Clinics. This is very encouraging news as we continue to keep our clients, residents, and staff safe.

COVID-19 VACCINE UPDATE:

To date, 1802 people in the Northwood community have received both the first dose and second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Residents – current snap shot.

             Halifax – 324 – 95%

             Bedford – 148 – 97%

Staff– current snap shot.

            Halifax – 392 – percentages not available until the 2nd dose clinics are completed.

            Bedford – 145 – percentages not available until the 2nd dose clinics are completed.

Designated Care givers

            Halifax – 129

            Bedford – 114

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, February 11, 2021

Dear residents and families,

Fall River, Nova Scotia –  Nova Scotia is adding hundreds of new long-term care beds and spending millions more on renovating or replacing seven long-term care homes. To accommodate more single rooms during the outbreak, Northwood was required to remove 100 beds from the Halifax campus. It has been announced that those 100 beds with an additional 44 new beds will be added to a new Northwood long-term care facility in the Fall River area.

The announcement was made on Friday, January 29, 2021, by Premier Stephen McNeil as part of the province’s commitment to make major investments in long-term care beds and facilities to better serve residents, families, and staff.

“We are thrilled with the announcement of a new Northwood long term care facility in the Fall River area. We have been working with a partner in the Fall River area for several years to bring a campus-style community together serving seniors to live as independently as possible. We are thrilled that a long term care facility will now be a part of that campus style community. The campus model has served Northwood for 50 years and we are thrilled to be able to provide this option for living in the Fall River area. This new facility will be designed to incorporate our learnings about infection control and technology to support individuals to have greater independence and control over their environment,” says President and CEO Janet Simm.

The year 2020 was the most challenging year Northwood has seen. As many Northwood staff, residents, and clients are healing, this announcement has helped bolster spirits. The Northwood community is very excited about what the future holds.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – WEDNESDAY, January 27, 2021

Dear residents and families,

As the second wave of COVID-19 continues throughout Canada our small province continues to do well with only 11 active cases in the province as of January 27, 2021. It is however still very important for all of us to remain diligent and continue to follow Public Health directives to keep COVID out of our Long Term Care facilities.

Northwood’s COVID vaccine clinics have been very successful providing first dose vaccine to over 1150 people within the Northwood LTC community. Over 90% of residents have been vaccinated, with 55% percent of active and close to 40% of DCG at both locations who have chosen to be vaccinated.

Second dose vaccinations for residents, designated care givers, and staff will start on Feb 8 and continue for two weeks. Once we have additional vaccine supplies we will organize additional first dose clinics.

Vaccination is essential to ending the threat of this pandemic however the current infection prevention and control measure will continue to be required for months to come.  Precautions such as screening, universal mandatory masking, social distancing, handwashing and environmental cleaning will continue as is.  We will continue to adhere to all directives from the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health.

Northwood continues supporting resident and family engagement to support their mental wellbeing. Video calls, visits, and the Designated Caregiver program help us to do so.

We continuously reassess and work to offer more activities to residents based on the provincial COVID numbers and as restrictions are lifted. Designated Caregivers are able to take residents out of the facility for a drive but within the restriction of no stops or visits during the outing. Despite the provincial vaccine supply issues, Northwood continues with COVID vaccine clinics in Halifax and Bedford.

Residents

Halifax – 93% complete      Bedford – 96% complete

 

Staff

Halifax – 56% complete      Bedford – 67% complete

 

Designated Caregivers

Halifax – 40% complete      Bedford – 40% complete

 

Northwood has completed 865 on-site since January 11.

There were 302 completed at the Nova Scotia Health clinics prior to this.

 

In total, 1167 of the NW LTC community. We are offering clinics in Halifax and Bedford over the next week where we will deliver 50 more vaccines.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – FRIDAY, January 15, 2021

Dear residents and families,

It has been a busy and productive week and we are excited to share that yesterday we received our first doses of the Moderna vaccine at the Bedford campus!

Over the last two days we have vaccinated the majority of residents at the Halifax Campus and are thrilled to share that we will now begin the Bedford Campus resident vaccine clinics. The team will start vaccination today, Friday January 15, 2021.

The team has worked hard to prepare for this day to ensure residents and families have been informed and are ready to accept the vaccine. Along with screening, asymptomatic swabbing, wearing masks and physical distancing this is another step to keep everyone safe and reduce the risk of COVID entering our building, triggering an outbreak.

We are excited to tell you we are able to offer staff and Designated Caregivers vaccinations on site. Clinics for staff and Designated Caregivers for the Bedford Campus will be held next week. More information will come. It is our plan to offer vaccination for Northwood employees and Designated Caregivers based on vaccine availability and according to the provincial phased approach.

This is such a milestone after all the sacrifice and diligence the Northwood community has undergone in the past year to combat COVID-19.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, January 14, 2021

Dear residents and families,

Nova Scotia’s COVID-19 immunization plan, directed by Public Health, includes a 3-phase approach.

Northwood is provided vaccine by Public Health and has been advised to vaccinate front-line healthcare workers who are closely involved in the COVID-19 response (more likely to be exposed to COVID-19), residents, staff, and Designated Caregivers of long-term care facilities.

Tenants who live in Northwood’s apartments and who meet Public Health’s criteria will be eligible fore the vaccine when the province rolls out the plan for the seniors living in the community who are 80 or older/seniors living in the community who are 75 to 79.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – WEDNESDAY, January 13, 2021

Dear residents and families,

It has been a busy and productive week!

The Northwood vaccination campaign is well underway. As of Wednesday, January 13th, over 225 residents have had their vaccine at the Halifax Campus. The Bedford Campus resident vaccine clinic will begin this week and will be completed next week.

We are excited to tell you we are able to offer staff and Designated Caregivers vaccinations on site. In working with Nova Scotia Health, 591 names were forwarded for vaccination since December 14, 2020.

The first of these clinics will be held tomorrow at the Halifax Campus and will be restricted as per Public Health direction to LTC staff and Designated Caregivers. Appointments have been pre-booked from the list of people who requested the vaccine.

Additional clinics for staff and Designated Caregivers for the Bedford Campus will be held early next week. More information will come.

It is our plan to offer vaccination for all Northwood employees and Designated Caregivers based on vaccine availability and according to the provincial phased approach.

This is such a milestone after all the sacrifice and diligence the Northwood community has undergone in the past year to combat COVID-19.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – WEDNESDAY, January 6, 2021

Dear residents and families,

The holidays are over and life is returning to our new normal. The new year is starting out with some positive news. Yesterday it was announced that three of the largest Long Term Care facilities in Nova Scotia will receive the Moderna vaccine. Unlike the Pfizer vaccine, the Moderna vaccine can be transported directly to each Long Term Care facility.

The Department of Health and Wellness has allocated 3,700 Moderna vaccine doses for the residents, staff, and caregivers of Northwood and two other Long Term Care facilities in the province. The process is now in place to start shipping the Moderna vaccine to Northwood while maintaining the appropriate temperature. These allocated doses will include the first and second shots required for each individual.

 

Northwood is extremely grateful to be receiving the Moderna vaccine. We look forward to continuing with phase one of the immunization process and hope to move into phase two in approximately April or May.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – TUESDAY, January 5, 2021

Dear residents and families,

Please see the attached process for resident items to be dropped off at a Northwood Facility:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, residents may need essential or non-essential items from outside the facility or belongings from home. This process pertains to accepting gifts from family/support person(s) or designated caregivers/individuals who wish to drop off items for residents living at a Northwood facility.

Family Drop off Procedures

HOME SUPPORT DIRECTIVES – MONDAY, JANUARY 4, 2021

Dear Home Support clients and families,

The year 2020 has been extremely challenging for Long Term Care, Home Support, and the world. We would like to reach out to our Home Support clients who may have questions regarding various COVID-19 directives. Please review the documents attached below.

CCIR 107.0 Attachment 1 UPP QA Home Care

CCIR 107.0 Attachment 2 Home-and-community-Outbreak-Toolkit -for-HC-agencies

CCIR 107.0 Attachment 3 Masking HC Clients Handout

CCIR 107.0 Attachment 4 UPP For Home and Community-Cheat sheet

CCIR 107.0 UPP and HC Client Masking

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, December 17, 2020

Dear residents and families,

 

With the announcement yesterday on the easement of visiting restrictions, we are happy to provide the following update.

We are close to the holidays and many preparations and schedules are already in place. Our team is committed to increasing the opportunities for resident and family connections. 

We will begin the process of increasing the assigned designated caregivers to two immediately with additional participation beginning on Monday, December 21. The process will be the same as previous participation in the program:

  • A maximum of two DCGs designated by the residents or substitute decision-makers. There have been over 200 participants in the DCG program.
  • It would be helpful if the additional DCG could be the one that was assigned prior to the last restrictions. If not, the new DCG will require training prior to participating in the program to ensure they are aware of the process and precautions that must be followed.
  • For Halifax Campus – Please phone 902-454-4408 for more information.
  • For Bedford Campus – Please phone 902-407-8520

Organized visiting will resume on Monday. We will balance visiting with planned events and with the residents ability to come to the main street. Residents so enjoy the ability to come to the main floors. The process will include:

  • Visits will be booked for a maximum of 2 visitors per resident at a time.  We will be prioritizing visits for residents who do not currently have a DCG to enable more residents and family to connect throughout the holidays.
  • Visits will be booked on a first-come basis and will be accommodated in spaces to provide privacy for the visit.
  • Visitors must wear masks at all times during the visit.
  • Visitors must be screened prior to visiting.
  • Non-perishable foods (sweets or treats – do not need refrigeration) for residents to take to their room are acceptable. Food can not be shared at the visit because masks must be worn at all times.
  • If you do bring parcels for Christmas please make sure staff know to ensure items are recorded and labeled as necessary.

We are excited to have people back for the holidays. Staff will continue to monitor that precautions are followed to keep residents, family, and staff safe.

Happy Holidays!

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, December 17, 2020

Dear residents and families,

We continue to realize the importance of family and resident connection on well-being. Current visitation restrictions will remain in place until December 21.

In order to keep residents safe over the holidays, Public Health has advised residents may not leave the facility for family visits. We do understand that visiting with family over the holidays is very important. As of December 21, the visitation restriction within the facility will be loosened. Our team is reviewing the recent updates from Public Health and will share further information by the end of the week.  

Residents enjoy their time away from their living area so that will be a priority consideration as we loosen visiting restrictions. We need to stay vigilant even over the holidays as COVID remains in the community. The most important goal is to keep all of us healthy and safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – WEDNESDAY, December 16, 2020

Dear Residents and Families,

We received some great news on Friday evening. Northwood’s Long Term Care Program has been included in the first round of provincial vaccines for COVID-19. The vaccination is voluntary however we are strongly encouraging staff to be vaccinated for the protection of residents and co-workers.

We will be working with the Department of Health and Wellness to organize the vaccination of those selected Northwood staff members. This process will take time and coordination with Northwood and DHW. We can’t offer confirmed dates for the first vaccinations but assure the public that the process is underway.

If you have questions or concerns regarding the COVID-19 vaccine, please refer to the attached FAQ.

COVID-19 FAQ Vaccine

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, December 10, 2020

Dear residents and families,

Northwood and the Department of Health and Wellness acknowledge the importance of quality of life, mental health, and overall well-being of all residents. Residents of long-term care are more susceptible to acquiring COVID-19 and therefore we need to have strong safety measures in place.

As outlined in the attached Long Term Care Guidelines, in order to keep all residents and staff safe, the number of designated caregivers will continue to be reduced from two to one and all indoor visitation will continue to be suspended until December 17, 2020. Please watch for updates on the northwood.care website.

Guidelines for LTC Facilities 2020_12_1

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – WEDNESDAY, December 2, 2020

Dear Residents and Families,

On December 1, 2020, the Chief Medical Officer of Health announced changes to the Public Health directives. Effective today the Designated Caregiver (DCG) Program has been restricted to one DCG per resident, assigned by the resident or their substitute decision-maker. Please call 902-454-4408 (option 1) for Halifax and 902-407-8520 for Bedford to provide the name of the one DCG.

Northwood is committed to continuing this program within the Public Health directives. We value the importance family connection has on the wellbeing of residents and family. The required precautions e.g. screening, mandatory masking at all times, signing in, restricted movement within the facility must continue to be strictly followed. If a DCG is unable to follow all precautionary measures, participation in the program will not continue.

For those DCGs who have not been able to receive a flu vaccine due to limited supply in the community, please advise when you contact the above number and we will provide further information.

These changes will be in effect until further notice. The health and safety of Northwood residents, staff, and family members continue to be our number one priority.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

FAQ Document

COMMUNICATION WITH FAMILIES – Nov. 26, 2020

Dear Residents and Families

Thank you for your patience as we reviewed the recent directive provided by Public Health and respond to the growing number of individuals testing positive for COVID -19. 

  • All general visiting has been stopped and we will monitor public health directions before any changes are made. 
  • Residents leaving the facility are currently restricted to medical appointments only. This will be reassessed based on the community transmission situation as reported by Public Health.
  • Resident movement off units has been restricted to escorted visits off living areas. We have deployed our Long Term Care Assistants to the resident living areas to support resident engagement and address social isolation. Residents are having meals in the dining room with physical distancing measures to again support socialization.
  • Everyone entering the facility continue to be screened for symptoms, universal masking continues as well, anyone entering a resident living area must sign in and out to provide contact tracing. As of Friday, November 27, 2020. Staff and DCG will participate in serial testing for COVID 19. This will be done daily within a 2-week period and then re-testing will occur. Testing clinic dates and times will be posted on the website.
  • In follow up to our communication on November 24, we have been able to review our processes and the data on the current Designated Caregivers and medical appointments. Public Health continues to support the DCG program and given the precautions that we have in place we believe we are able to continue this important program. We are however introducing additional precautions. A letter outlining the new Designated Care Program requirements will be provided to each DCG with the understanding that if the DCG is unable to adhere to the measures participation in the program is not possible. Northwood is committed to providing a safe environment for residents, staff, and visitors. We know the importance of resident and family connections and have seen the commitment of the Designated Caregivers to complying with necessary precautions when visiting. We will continuously monitor this compliance as we do for all staff in the facilities.

We understand the impact restrictions have on residents’ and families’ wellbeing and we believe in the benefits of the Designated Caregiver Program and other family connections including virtual calls. Please continue to monitor our website for additional information.

COMMUNICATION WITH FAMILIES – Nov. 19, 2020

Dear residents and families,

Given the current rise in COVID-19 cases in Nova Scotia, we would like to err on the side of caution. We continue to suspend resident outings into the community for family visits and trips until further notice.  

External Medical appointments will continue.

Indoor visits and the Designated Caregiver program will continue. Screening and PPE are mandatory for both.

We would also like to remind everyone the importance of proper mask use, hand hygiene, and social distancing. We all need to work together to keep our loved ones healthy and safe.

Please check the COVID-19 section of our website regularly for updates.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNICATION WITH FAMILIES – Nov. 19, 2020

Dear residents and families,

This has been a very difficult year for us all. Northwood is working very hard to be proactive, making sure we have solid plans in place as we move forward in preparation for a potential second wave/outbreak. Every little detail is extremely important to ensure our residents are safe and will continue to have all that they need.

We recommend that residents or their caregiver arrange for the installation of any new phone lines or cable service as soon as possible. If there is a need to tighten restrictions in the near future we may not be able to respond to such requests in a timely manner during an outbreak.

Residents or their caregiver can call 902-454-3367 for Halifax or 902-407-8531 for Bedford to schedule phone and cable installation.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNICATION WITH FAMILIES

Clear communication is paramount during a global pandemic, particularly for those who are unable to see their loved ones due to Public Health restrictions. We received feedback from families regarding Northwood’s communication during the first wave of the pandemic, which included a focus group with families to discuss a realistic plan in the event of an outbreak at either of Northwood’s campuses during a second wave of the pandemic. Care of your loved one during an outbreak is our top priority. You may not have direct access to the care team who is caring for your loved one, as your loved one’s well-being is their priority. In the event of an outbreak in either Halifax or Bedford, the following is the communication that you can expect from Northwood:

PHONE COMMUNICATION – Phone calls will be made to the Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) only. Northwood would ask that the SDM inform other family members of any updates.

  • Informing the SDM (of any change in a resident’s condition).  
  • A call to the SDM to inform them if a resident has had a positive test result.
  • A weekly call to provide a general update to the SDM. This may include a negative test result, status of the number of infections on the unit where your loved one lives, a resident room change, etc. Updates on residents receiving end of life care will be provided to the SDM daily or more often based on the resident’s condition and status.  Visiting at end of life will be available.

PHONE VISITATION BOOKING – Booking information is located on the Northwood website under Info for Families.
The website will be updated with information on resident and family engagement opportunities such as :

  • Indoor and outdoor visits
  • Designated Caregiver visits
  • Resident visits to family homes
  • Video calls
  • Medical appointments

WEBSITE UPDATES

  • Locations of new infections
  • Number of new infections
  • Number of active cases
  • Number of recovered
  • Updates on restrictions
  • Frequently asked questions, FAQ Documents
  • Links to critical Public Health Documentation

WEEKLY EMAIL UPDATES

  • Mass email message to the Long Term Care email lists for Halifax and Bedford campuses.
  • Include updates on the number of cases, restrictions, and other general COVID information.

 VIDEO MESSAGING

Weekly online press conference and or video messages. These messages will be posted on the COVID-19 Updates section of the website.

Thank you for your continued patience and understanding.

Booking Information

Connecting with your loved ones is more important than ever. To schedule a visit with your family member, inquire about becoming a designated care giver or for any questions related to booking information please click the information document.

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