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Update from St. Patrick's Home

September 14, 2023

Dear Friends Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that four residents have newly tested positive for COVID-19. The residents who have tested positive are now on isolation and will remain on isolation for at least 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents every 3-7 days for the 10-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents.

Again, we remain open for visitation. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

Sincerely,
Rafi Lehmann
Administration

December 19, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that four residents have newly tested positive for COVID-19. The residents who have tested positive are now on isolation and will remain on isolation for at least 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents.

Again, we remain open for visitation. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

Sincerely,
Rafi Lehmann
Administration

October 24, 2022

Dear Family Friends and Residents,

This letter comes to update and advise you of the current status related to our care of residents. We recognize this is a difficult time for families & our beloved residents. We hope the following information will assist you & our residents to be safe.

• Resident testing continues as facility is still within our 14-day outbreak monitoring
• Family & Visitors testing continues for everyone’s safety
• Staff testing twice a week continues based on our community positivity rate and outbreak status.
• Residents can attend Mass per floor.
• Residents are allowed to go out to the patio per floor.
• Beauty Salon is opened for residents per floor (6 feet distance between resident still maintained)

Again, we remain open for visitation.   If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread. We appreciate your support as we strive for the safety of our residents.

Sincerely,

Administrator
Shlomo Mushell

October 24, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that one residents have newly tested positive for COVID-19.  The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for at least 10 days under observation.  We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health.  We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents.

Again, we remain open for visitation.   If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

Sincerely,

Administrator
Shlomo Mushell

October 10, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,
This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that two residents have newly tested positive forCOVID-19.

The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for at least 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents.

Again, we remain open for visitation. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

Sincerely,
Administration

October 3, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that four residents have newly tested positive for COVID-19.  The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for at least 10 days under observation.  We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health.  We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents.

Again, we remain open for visitation. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

Sincerely,
Administration

September 30, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that one residents have newly tested positive for COVID-19. The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for at least 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents.

Again, we remain open for visitation. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

Sincerely,
Administration

September 26, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that four residents have newly tested positive for COVID-19.

The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for at least 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents.

Again, we remain open for visitation. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

Sincerely,
Administration

September 22, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that six residents have newly tested positive forCOVID-19.

The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for at least 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents.

Again, we remain open for visitation but recommend not visiting at this time to help contain the spread.. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

Sincerely,
Administration

September 19, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that Fourteen residents have newly tested positive for COVID-19. The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for at least 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents.

Again, we remain open for visitation. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

Sincerely,
Administration

September 16, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that eighteen residents have newly tested positive for COVID-19. The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for at least 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents.

Again, we remain open for visitation. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

Sincerely,
Administration

 September 8, 2022 

Dear Friends Family and Residents, 

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that two residents have newly tested positive for COVID-19. The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for at least 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents. 

Again, we remain open for visitation. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to help prevent further spread. 

Sincerely,
Administration 

 September 7, 2022 

Dear Friends Family and Residents, 

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that three residents have newly tested positive for COVID-19. The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for at least 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents. 

Again, we remain open for visitation. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread. 

Sincerely,
Administration 

September 6, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that four residents have newly tested positive for COVID-19. The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for at least 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents.

We remain open for visitation. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

May God bless you and your families and keep you safe and well.

Sincerely,
Administration

September 4, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that three residents have newly tested positive for COVID-19. The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for at least 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents.

We remain open for visitation. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

May God bless you and your families and keep you safe and well.

Sincerely,
Administration

July 29, 2022

Dear Friends, Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that we no longer have residents with positive results for COVID-19. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents and or staff.

We remain open for visitation but strongly recommend not visiting at this time to help contain the spread. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed every visit by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

May God bless you and your families and keep you safe and well.

Sincerely,
Shlomo Mushell
Administrator

July 16, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that three residents have newly tested positive for COVID-19. The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for at least 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents and or staff.

We remain open for visitation but strongly recommend not visiting at this time to help contain the spread. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

May God bless you and your families and keep you safe and well.

Sincerely,
Sr. Kevin Patricia Lynch
CEO

January 31, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that one resident and one staff member have newly tested positive for COVID-19. The resident who has tested positive is now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for at least 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents and staff every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents and or staff.

May God bless you and your families and keep you safe and well.

Sincerely,
Sr. Kevin Patricia Lynch
Administrator

January 24, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that six residents have newly tested positive for COVID-19. The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for at least 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents and staff every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents and or staff.

We remain open for visitation but strongly recommend not visiting at this time to help contain the spread. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

May God bless you and your families and keep you safe and well.

Sincerely,
Sr. Kevin Patricia Lynch
Administrator

January 20, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that two residents have newly tested positive for COVID-19. The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for at least 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents and staff every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents and or staff.

We remain open for visitation but strongly recommend not visiting at this time to help contain the spread. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

May God bless you and your families and keep you safe and well.

Sincerely,
Sr. Kevin Patricia Lynch
Administrator

January 19, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that one resident has newly tested positive for COVID-19. The resident who has tested positive is now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for at least 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents and staff every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents and or staff.

May God bless you and your families and keep you safe and well.

Sincerely,
Sr. Kevin Patricia Lynch
Administrator

January 18, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that six residents have newly tested positive for COVID-19. The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents and staff every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents and or staff.

We remain open for visitation but strongly recommend not visiting at this time to help contain the spread. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, a negative COVID 19 test is required as directed by the NYS Department of Health. You must also adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

May God bless you and your families and keep you safe and well.

Sincerely,
Sr. Kevin Patricia Lynch
Administrator

January 14, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,

The New York State Department of Health has issued new guidelines for visitation in Nursing Homes due to the increase in COVID cases in New York. Effective Tuesday January 18, 2022, visitors must present a negative SARS-CoV-2 test result: 1 day prior to visit with the use of antigen (rapid) test or 2 days prior to visit with the use of NAAT (PCR) test.

It is preferred and recommended by the Department of Health that visitors are tested prior to visiting and come to the facility with a negative result. In the event a visitor does not have a test result prior to arrival, the facility will provide a COVID-19 Rapid test kit from the limited supply provided by the New York State Department of Health.

Visitor Testing Procedure
• If you have a test report within the required timeframe bring the result with you for authorization prior to your visit. If it is an at-home test, please take a photo of the final result and be prepared to present the photo upon entering the facility.
• If you are unable to obtain a test prior to visiting, you will be provided with a self-test kit upon arrival and will be instructed to complete the test outside of the facility.
• If positive, please do not reenter the facility and follow CDC guidance for when it is safe to return to the facility.
• If negative, please bring the test into the facility for verification along with the standard visitation form.

In addition, visitors must wear a well-fitting non-surgical paper mask, or mask of higher quality such as KN 95 or N 95, at all times during any visitation at the facility, and continue to adhere to social distancing and core principles of infection control.

We thank you for your continued patience and support during this difficult time.

Sincerely,
Sr. Kevin Patricia Lynch
Administrator

January 13, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents, This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that eleven residents and four staff members have newly tested positive for COVID-19.

The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for 10 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents and staff every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents and or staff.

Again, we remain open for Visitation, but strongly recommend not visiting at this time to help contain the spread. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, you must adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

May God bless you and your families and keep you safe and well.

Sincerely,
Sr. Kevin Patricia Lynch
Administrator

January 11, 2022

Dear Friends, Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that one resident and two staff members have newly tested positive for COVID-19.

The resident who has tested positive is now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for 14 days under observation.  We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents and staff every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health.  We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents and or staff.

Again, we remain open for Visitation, but strongly recommend not visiting at this time. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, you must adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

May God bless you and your families and keep you safe and well.

Sincerely,
Sr. Kevin Patricia Lynch
Administrator

January 10, 2022

Dear Friends, Family and Residents,

This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that ten residents and eleven staff members have newly tested positive for COVID-19. The residents and staff were identified through the weekly testing and the majority are asymptomatic or exhibiting mild symptoms. The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for 14 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents and staff every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents and or staff.

Again, we remain open for Visitation, but strongly recommend not visiting at this time. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, you must adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

May God bless you and your families and keep you safe and well.

Sincerely,
Sr. Kevin Patricia Lynch
Administrator

January 7, 2022

Dear Friends Family and Residents,
This letter is to keep you updated and inform you that ten residents and thirty staff members have tested positive for COVID-19. The residents and staff were identified through the weekly testing and the majority are asymptomatic or exhibiting mild symptoms.

The residents who have tested positive are now on the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for 14 days under observation. We will continue to conduct broad base testing of the residents and staff every 3-7 days for the 14-day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents and or staff.

Again, we remain open for Visitation, but strongly recommend not visiting at this time. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, you must adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

We hope and pray that you remain safe and healthy in this New Year and that the Lord continues to bless you and your loved ones.

Sincerely,
Sr. Kevin Patricia Lynch
Administrator

December 28, 2021

Dear Friends, Family and Residents,

This letter is to inform you that twelve staff members, all fully vaccinated have tested positive for COVID-19. These staff members were identified though the routine testing. These staff members have been furloughed as per NYS guidelines. There have been no new positive results for our residents. We will continue to conduct contact tracing and testing the residents and staff every 3-7 days for the 14day period as directed by the NYS Department of Health. We will continue to inform you of any new positive results for residents and or staff.

As you may have heard, CMS has issued new guidelines on shortening isolation periods for certain fully vaccinated Healthcare Workers and other critical workforces if they meet the criteria to return to work. These guidelines have also been sanctioned by the NYS Department of Health on December 24, 2021. We continue to follow the guidelines set by the Department of Health.

We remain open for visitation during this time. Visitors must still be screened for symptoms of COVID-19 which includes completing the screening form given, temperatures taken, wear a mask at all times and maintain social distancing while in St. Patrick's to help stop the spread of infection. We ask residents and families to have no more than 3 visitors at one time to help maintain social distancing for all residents and their visitors. We need to be mindful of other resident's families who wish to visit their loved ones.

We hope and pray that you remain safe and healthy in the New Year and that the Lord continue to bless you and your loved ones.

Sincerely,
Sr. Kevin Patricia Lynch
Administrator

December 23, 2021

Dear Friends and Family and Residents,

This letter is to inform you that five residents and two staff members have tested positive for COVID-19. These residents and staff member were identified though the testing performed on Monday. The residents who have tested positive are now in the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for 14 days under observation. We will continue to conduct contact tracing and testing the residents every 3-7 days for the 14-day period.

Although we remain open for Visitation, we strongly advise against visitation at this time. If you wish to continue to visit during this time, it would be at your own risk. All visitors must adhere to infection control guidelines for the safety of all and to prevent further spread.

We would like to wish you and your loved ones a Blessed Christmas and a healthy and happy New Year. Thank you for your cooperation and be assured of our prayers.

Sincerely,
Sr. Kevin Patricia Lynch
Administrator

December 20, 2021

Dear Friends and Family,

It has been some time since our last communication but as always, we want to keep you informed and updated. We are writing to inform you that two staff members of St. Patrick's Home have tested positive for COVID 19. The staff members are fully vaccinated and have been placed on mandatory 10-day furlough. As per NY State Department of Health guidelines, we are required to test all residents immediately and then every 3-7 days to assure all residents are negative for the 14-day period. All staff members are also being tested as well.

We remain open for Visitation during this time. Visitors must still be screened for symptoms of COVID-19, complete the screening form, have their temperatures taken, and wear a mask at all times while in St. Patrick's. Should someone have any symptoms such as cough, sore throat or meet the criteria for quarantine such as exposure are not permitted to enter the facility. We wish to remind you that all other NYS Department of Health regulations are still in effect. The facility continues to have an obligation to keep all residents safe and free from transmission of COVID-19.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones a Blessed Christmas and a healthy and happy New Year. Thank you for your cooperation and be assured of our prayers.

Sincerely,
Sr. Kevin Patricia Lynch
Administrator

November 24, 2021

Dear Families, Friends, and Residents,

It is with profound sadness that I leave St. Patrick's Home. I have been asked by our Congregational Leadership Team to assume the role of Administrator of Lourdes Noreen McKeen Nursing Home in West Palm Beach, Florida as of December 1, 2021.

It has been a joy and a privilege to be at St. Patrick's for the past three years. I thank you for all your support and kindness shown to me, our staff, and our residents. Your support of our "mission" is very much appreciated by me, the Sisters, staff, and most of all our residents.

Please be assured of a remembrance in my daily prayers and I ask that you keep me in yours as well. May God continue to bless each of you.

Sister Diane Marie Mack, O. Carm.

Administrator

November 19, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

As you may have heard CMS has issued new guidelines for visitation and this has just been sanctioned by the NYSDOH. Visitation will be open, meaning that there is no restriction on the length of time for visits or the number of people allowed to visit. Strict Infection control precautions and social distancing must still be maintained, and masks worn at all times. Visitation should still be in resident rooms, designated visiting areas and/or outdoors. Visitors are still not allowed in the Floor Dining rooms, Sitting Rooms, or in other common areas of the building where residents other than the person you are visiting are residing. The facility stilt has the obligation to keep all residents safe and free from transmission of Covid-19. As such, the facility may limit the number of visitors in any given space to allow for social distancing. We have appreciated everyone's cooperation with the visiting thus far and have not had any issues with this. You will still be screened for symptoms of Covid-19, fill out the screening form, have your temperature taken, and sign the visitors log prior to your visit.

Residents will be able to leave the facility if they choose to visit with family, go on car rides, or for a meal, or social visits. Again masks, hand hygiene, and social distancing are encouraged for all when taking the resident out to an event. We encourage anyone who will be in contact with residents to have been vaccinated. If not please assure that masks are worn. Residents will be screened upon return, and we ask that we are informed if the resident has had any contact with anyone who has signs or symptoms of Covid-19. Should you wish to take your resident out please make plans beforehand, let your social worker know that this will be occurring, and inform the nurse on the unit when you leave and return.

Unvaccinated residents who leave the facility for more than 24 hours will be managed as a new admission upon return and will have to reside in our designated Covid Observation wing for the required 14 days. Vaccinated residents will be given a Covid -19 Rapid test upon return and will be permitted to return to their room with a negative result.

If you are visiting during mealtime and wish to assist your resident with their meal it must be in their room not in the dining area.
We are pleased that some of these restrictions have been lifted and hopefully this will continue into the future. Thank you for your continued understanding of our need to do all we can to keep our residents safe.

May God bless you at Thanksgiving and always.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack
Administrator

Sister Kevin Patricia Lynch
CEO

October 19, 2021

Family Update

Dear Family, Residents, and Friends,
We have been doing very well at St. Patrick's and things Seem to slowly be returning to normal. That being said we must all remember that we are still in the middle of a pandemic and our first responsibility is to keep our residents and each other safe. We are happy that all of our staff have been vaccinated in an effort to do so and proudly share this information with you. While Visitation is allowed there are still some guidelines that need to be adhered to. I am outlining these once again so that we can continue with Visitation while at the same time keeping our residents safe.

Masks must be worn when going to any of the nursing units whether or not you have been vaccinated.

All paperwork needs to be filled out, the Guest Book signed, and your temperature taken prior to going up to the Nursing Unit for your visit. We are grateful that everyone recognizes the importance of this and have been very cooperative with this process.

There is no visiting in the Common areas on the Nursing Units. Visiting on the Nursing Units is to be in the Residents' Room only. Visitors are not permitted in the Sitting Room, Dining Room, or in the halls or around the Nurses Station to visit. You may take your resident to the Outdoor Patio, Florida Room on the first floor, or Lobby area.

At no time should you take your resident off the premises. If there is a request for a Pass to go to an appointment etc., this needs to be cleared through Social Service, Nursing and Administration in advance.

When visiting if you are taking your resident off the unit, the nurse on the floor needs to be informed and the resident signed out at the front desk if they are going outside to the patio.

Please observe mealtimes and make sure your resident is back on the Nursing Unit in time for meals.

No visitors should be on the 2nd floor Common area, Kitchen area, or Café.
Recreation continues to find new and innovative ways to keep residents engaged throughout the day. Activities are held on the individual units, Coffee Time, and the rolling bar on Friday afternoons are a big hit. We are still live streaming weekly BINGO and Trivia to the units and Gift Shop items are brought to each unit as well.

We continue to have our Prayer Service on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and are blessed to have Mass celebrated in the Chapel on Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday, and special Feast Days. We are able to bring residents to attend these services one unit at a time so as not to coming to the different floors and they are also live streamed to the Resident's Rooms for those not in attendance. Face Time is ongoing, and we make every effort to keep our residents "connected" with you.

Thank you for your cooperation. We realize that we have all been going through this for a long time but can see some glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel if we continue to act responsibly and adhere to safety guidelines. Please be sure of our continued prayers for you and your families.

Sincerely,
Sister Diane Mack
Administrator

September 29, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Visitors,

It has been a long time since our last update, and we are pleased to inform you that we have had no incidence of COVID-19 in the facility for the past 6 months.

99.8% of our staff have been vaccinated and 95% of our residents have been vaccinated. We have tested all residents and staff as a precaution this past month and all residents and staff have tested negative.

We will be offering booster doses of the Pfizer vaccine to our residents beginning on October 6^th and will continue until all those requesting booster doses have received this additional dose. I am enclosing a Consent Form to be filled out if you want your resident to receive the booster. Please fill it out and return it to the front desk to the attention of Christine DeLuca or you may email it to her at: cdeluca@stpatrickshome.org. We ask that you return these as soon as possible so that we can begin compiling our list and obtain the vaccine from the pharmacy.

This has been a trying time for all of us and we are grateful that we have been able to offer the vaccine here at St. Patrick's and that so many of our staff have been vaccinated in an effort to keep themselves, their families, and our residents

Be sure of our continued prayers for you as we continue caring for our residents at St. Patrick's.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

July 16, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

Our visiting process is going very well, and we thank you all for your cooperation and understanding. I would like to re-iterate the procedure and guidelines we have in place for visiting at St. Patrick's Home to eliminate any confusion.

Visitation between the hours of 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM Monday through Friday, and 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays. You will not need to call for an appointment. Visits will be for ONE hour in length and you will need to be screened upon entry, receive a mask (if you don't have one or are not wearing a surgical mask), fill out the required screening form, and receive your Visitation Slip with the time allotted if you are visiting in a Resident's Room. You can proceed to the Resident's Room or visit in the Florida Room or Outdoors. You will be able to bring your resident to these areas. No visiting will be permitted in the common areas of the Nursing Units or undesignated common areas of the building. There is still a maximum of 3 visitors per resident. The facility reserves the right to limit the number of visitors in the facility at any one time to assure all safety and Infection Control Precautions are being followed. If the resident has a roommate, we need to be cognizant of their right to privacy as well.

Again, there is no visiting of residents in any common areas on the unit. Dinihg Rooms, Sitting Areas, Hallways, and areas around the Nurse's Station are not to be used for visiting. The designated Outdoor visiting areas are the Patio in the front of the building and the Florida Room on the first floor off the Lobby area.

The Department of Health and CMS Guidelines specifically state that: "Indoor visitation should limit movement throughout the facility. Visitors should go directly to the resident's room or designated visiting area". These are the

"Where It All(Began

CARMELITE SISTERS FOR THE AGED AND INFIRM SERVING THE ELDERLY SINCE 1929

guidelines we are to follow to assure the safety and privacy for all our residents is respected and adhered to.

Compassionate Care Visits remain the same. Compassionate Care Giving visits are for one hour and are allowed regardless of a resident being on Transmission Based Precautions.

We are grateful that we have finally arrived at this point regarding visitors. We are concerned with the surges we see throughout the country with the Delta Variant and are doing everything we can to keep our residents safe.

May God bless you and your families and keep you safe and well.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

Administrator

June 23, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

Please click below to view our new updates:

June 15, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

The purpose of this update is to clarify the policy and procedure regarding
In-Room visits for our residents. There seems to be some confusion and lack of understanding regarding the times for these visits. First and foremost, In-Room Visits are for very limited circumstances when the resident is unable to be transported to the space allotted for In-Person visits. They are not intended to be routine extended visits. The directives from the NYSDOH stipulate that In­ Person visits for those residents who have a roommate should not be conducted in the resident's room. We have tried to accommodate families by asking the roommate to be out of the room for the specified period of time which is a great inconvenience for the roommate, but we have tried to adapt the situation the best that we can. In return we ask for your cooperation and consideration of the situation.

In-Room visits follow the same specifications as the In-Person Visits which is 45 minutes per visit. We have had some issues with families not leaving in the time allotted and becoming argumentative when informed by staff that it was time to leave. This is concerning to us and we cannot and will not have a person's roommate out of their room for extended periods of time due to this behavior. It must be noted that the same time limit applies to persons in a private room or in a room without a roommate. All visits whether In-Person or In-Room are for the same period of time. The NYSDOH guidelines state that visits should be scheduled for a specified length of time to help ensure that all residents are able to receive visitors. We have been very lenient in specifying 45 minutes per visit when some facilities are allowing 15-minute or 30-minute visits.

If you require an In-Room Visit, when you check in and receive your mask, you will also receive a slip of paper with your arrival time and expected departure time on it. The nurse on the unit will let you know when it is time to leave. We ask for your understanding and cooperation during these visits.

This pandemic and the restrictions imposed upon us for so long have been difficult to say the least. The news this week states that the Governor of New York may be lifting restrictions unfortunately applies to businesses and not Nursing Homes. We are trying our best to work within the guidelines and at the same time do what we can to facilitate visits for our residents.

If you need to schedule a visit for the coming weeks, please call Janet Kibassa at: 718-304-1826.

Thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack Administrator

June 11, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

Please note that there was an error on my last Update. The correct number to reach Christine Deluca is: 718-304-1807.

We have been receiving calls inquiring as to what Unit is affected by the restrictions due to a staff member testing positive this week. As of this time, the 4th floor is on Isolation Precautions.

All residents have been tested and we expect the results within 2 days. All staff continue to be tested twice weekly and all other staff have tested negative this week. As long as there are no other cases identified, the 4th floor will be eligible for In Person Visitation beginning on June 22, 2021.

Thank you. We will continue to keep you updated as things progress.

Sister Diane Mack
Administrator

June 9, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

It has been a long time since we have had an update and things have been going rather well. In-Person Visitation as per the DOH guidelines continue, and we have been blessed with the return of some of our volunteers to help with this.

Unfortunately, one of our staff has tested positive for COVID-19. This person is vaccinated and has been placed on the mandatory 14-day furlough. All remaining staff have tested negative this week.

As per the NYState Department of Health guidelines, we are required to test all residents immediately and then every 3-7 days to assure all residents are negative for the 14-day period. All In-Person Visitation must be halted until the first round of testing is complete and the results are obtained. This usually takes from 48-72 hours. Once the results from the first round of testing are received, and if all residents are found to be negative, In-Person Visits can resume for the floors unaffected by the virus. At this point this staff person worked on one particular unit and did not float throughout the facility.

While this is disheartening new to have to report, the change in the NYSDOH guidelines regarding In-Person Visitation have relaxed somewhat and provided all tests are returned timely, and found to be negative we expect to be able to resume In-Person Visitation early next week. Compassionate Visits and Window Visits will continue.

Please call Christine DeLuca at 718-519-1807 for clarification for any visits scheduled for the next few days. We are hopeful that In-Person Visits will be scheduled once the results are received.

Thank you for your continued support of St. Patrick's Home and our mission.

Sincerely,
Sister Diane Mack
Administrator

May 14, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

It has been a while since we have sent an update as things have been uneventful with our continued testing of all staff and residents on a weekly basis. Visitation has been going well and is ongoing.

Yesterday one of our staff members test result came back positive. We believe this to be a false positive as this person has been fully vaccinated and has been retested today. We are awaiting the results. This staff member does NOT provide resident care and prior to testing had not been in the facility since May 8, 2021. We will keep you updated as to the results of retesting.

The Pfizer Vaccine has been made available to the facility through our Pharmacy and is being offered to all new admissions and additional staff who wish to receive it. We will continue to offer and administer the vaccine on site.

All residents continue to be tested weekly and remain negative. All staff are tested twice per week and there have been no additional positive results identified. All infection control precautions and procedures remain in place.

This will not affect Visitation as no nursing units are affected. Please continue to call Janet Kibassa at 718-304-1826 to schedule your visit.

May God continue to bless you.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

April 27, 2021

St. Patrick's Update

Dear Family, Friends and Residents,

We have not sent an Update lately as there was nothing new to report, however it is always good to communicate positive news. We maintain our testing of residents and staff weekly and have identified no new cases of COVID-19. We are most grateful for this and continue to keep vigilant in our surveillance.

Visitation is going very well, and we are looking forward to more outside visits now that the weather is getting warmer. We are scheduling visits weekdays and will try to accommodate those who may need some adjustments to the scheduled days and times due to circumstances that limit the times you able to visit. Compassionate Visits are always accomodated.
Please call Janet Kibassa at 718-304-1826 to schedule your visit.

Guidelines change frequently and we have just received new requirements for Staff and Residents testing regarding fully vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. Based on the area positivity rate some of the requirements for twice per week testing will be relaxed. These regulations are complicated and will require monitoring, however it is a positive step.

We look forward to the time when we can resume activities as they were. We have been taking residents outside to the patios in small groups for fresh air and sunshine. Facetime visits are ongoing. We are always looking for new and creative ways to stay "connected".

We will keep you updated as things progress and are confident that we are moving in the right direction. We will continue to keep our residents, your loved ones safe and cared for. Know we pray for you each day and ask God to bless you.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack
Administrator

April 3, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

We continue to test all residents weekly and staff twice per week. One of our staff has tested positive for COVID-19. This staff member works one day per week and has not worked in the facility since March 27, 2021. The positive result was found upon our routine testing. This staff member does not have any resident contact nor provide any resident care.

Resident and staff testing will be ongoing as per CDC, CMS, and NYSDOH guidelines. All remaining staff have tested negative this week and there have been no additional residents testing positive this week.

We will maintain our In Person visits as per guidelines. Please call Janet Kibassa at 718-304-1826 to schedule your visit.

Thank you for your understanding and patience.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

March 31, 2021

St. Patrick’s Update

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

This is to inform you that one of our residents has tested positive for COVID during our weekly testing of all residents. This resident and her roommate have been moved to the COVID wing for the mandatory observation and isolation period. All remaining residents and staff have tested negative this week. All residents, including this particular resident were retested and all tests have been negative. We are questioning the validity of the first test but must follow the protocol. We will continue to test all of our residents weekly and staff twice per week.

We will be able to continue our visiting schedule as per the new guidelines. Please plan on keeping your scheduled appointment or call to make your appointment with Janet Kibassa at 718-304-1826.

We have been informed by our pharmacy that they will have the vaccine available for any staff or residents who have not yet been vaccinated. If you wish your resident to receive the vaccine please contact our Director of Nursing, Frantz Campbell at 718-304-1803 to schedule the administration of this vaccine.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding. May you have a blessed Easter Season and may God continue to bless you.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

March 26, 2021

St. Patrick’s Update

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

We have received word that the NYSDOH has allowed visitation within the CDC and CMS guidelines. This is good news for all of us as the 14-day requirement for a positive case is no longer in effect unless there is an outbreak within the facility. It is to be noted that there are specific guidelines that need to be followed regarding visitation.

The guidelines regarding visitor screening, hand hygiene, social distancing, disinfection of each designated area, and appropriate PPE remain in effect. Outdoor visitation is preferred even when the resident and visitor are fully vaccinated as they pose a lower risk of transmission.

Indoor visitation is permitted but it is still very much regulated. For example, the following are instances where indoor In-Person Visitation is still restricted:

Visits to unvaccinated residents if the county positivity rate is greater than 10% and

if less than 70% of the residents are fully vaccinated.

Visits to residents with confirmed COVID-19 infection whether vaccinated or unvaccinated

until they have met the criteria to discontinue Transmission Based Precautions

Visits to residents in quarantine whether vaccinated or unvaccinated until they have met the criteria for release from quarantine.

The following guidelines are in effect from the NYSDOH:

- Outdoor visiting is preferred even when the resident and visitor are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Outdoor visits pose a lower risk of transmission due to increased space and air flow.

- We are reminded that visits should be held outdoors whenever practicable.

- In-Person visits should be scheduled for a specific length of time to help ensure that all residents are able to receive visitors.

- The number of persons per resident should be limited.

- Limit visitor movement throughout the facility.

- For residents who share a room, visits should not be conducted in the Resident’s Room.

- If the resident is fully vaccinated (meaning they have received a final dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and 14 days have passed), they can choose to have close contact with their visitor while wearing a face mask and performing hand hygiene after.

(Per CDC, CMS, and NYSDOH guidelines)

If a new case of COVID-19 among residents or staff is identified, In-Person Visitation is suspended until one round of facility wide testing is completed. If the first round of outbreak testing reveals no additional COVID-19 cases in other areas of the facility, visitation can resume for residents in areas with no COVID-19 cases. This would limit the time for visitation suspension from 14 days to 2-3 days when all results of re-testing are received.

If the first round of testing reveals one or more additional COVID-19 cases in other areas of the facility (e.g. new cases in two or more units) visitation is suspended for all residents vaccinated or unvaccinated until the facility meets the criteria to discontinue outbreak testing (which is 14 days). This is per CDC, CMS, and NYSDOH guidelines.

We will be scheduling In-Person Visitation Monday through Friday. Any person scheduled for a Window Visit for next week will be able to have an In-Person Visit within the guidelines. Please call Janet Kibassa at 718-304-1826 to schedule your visit.

Visits will be for 45 minutes in a designated area. The appropriate paperwork and temperature checks will be conducted upon arrival. Face masks MUST be worn at all times.

Proof of vaccination is not required.

Thank you for your understanding as we continue to navigate through this pandemic and the ever-changing guidelines. We will continue to keep you updated and look forward to seeing you.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack Sister Kevin Patricia Lynch

Administrator CEO

March 19, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

We continue to navigate through the ever-changing guidelines and recommendations from the CDC, CMS and our own New York State Department of Health.  As such we are planning in person visitation within these guidelines.  The information presented in the media has been confusing to say the least and at times incomplete when conveying the new standards which we need to follow. 

The guidelines regarding visitor screening, hand hygiene, social distancing, disinfection of each designated area, and appropriate PPE remain in effect. Outdoor visitation is preferred even when the resident and visitor are fully vaccinated as they pose a lower risk of transmission.

Indoor visitation is permitted but it is still very much regulated.  For example, the following are instances where indoor in person visitation is still restricted:

•  Visits to unvaccinated residents if the county positivity rate is greater than 10% and if less than 70% of the residents are fully vaccinated.
• Visits to residents with confirmed COVID-19 infection whether vaccinated or unvaccinated until they have met the criteria to discontinue Transmission Based Precautions
• Visits to residents in quarantine whether vaccinated or unvaccinated until they have met the criteria for release from quarantine.
• Visits to any resident other than end-of-life compassionate visitation if there is a positive COVID-19 case in the facility. (Per NYSDOH regulation)

     Once indoor in person visiting is allowed, visits should be scheduled for a specific length of time and the number of persons per resident limited.  If the resident is fully vaccinated  (meaning they have received a final dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and 14 days have passed), they can choose to have close contact with their visitor while wearing a face mask and performing hand hygiene after.

If a new case of COVID-19 among residents or staff is identified, in person visitation is suspended until one round of facility wide testing is completed. If the first round of outbreak testing reveals no additional COVID-19 cases in other areas of the facility, visitation can resume for residents in areas with no COVID-19 cases.  If the first round of testing reveals one or more additional COVID-19 cases in other areas of the facility (e.g. new cases in two or more units) visitation is suspended for all residents vaccinated or unvaccinated until the facility meets the criteria to discontinue outbreak testing.  This is per CDC and CMS guidelines, however the NYSDOH stipulates that if there is a positive case in the facility visitation must be suspended until 14 days have passed and there are no new cases identified.  We are mandated to follow this regulation until we are notified otherwise from the NYSDOH that they have accepted the CDC/CMS guidelines. 

We have been notified that one of our residents has tested positive for COVID-19.  This resident is asymptomatic and has been fully vaccinated.  This person has never had a positive result from testing. All other residents had negative results from this week’s testing.  All staff have had negative results from this week’s testing.  This resident was re-tested yesterday, and all residents have been re-tested.  All staff continue to be tested twice per week.  It is necessary for us to follow all guidelines regarding visitation for residents. This can be very confusing as there are three different departments involved.  We will be able to begin in-person visitation for our residents beginning on March 30, 2021 provided there are no new cases identified.

We are waiting for notification from the New York State Department of Health as to whether they will allow visitation based on the CDC and CMS guidelines.  If so, this will shorten the waiting period between cases identified and suspension of visitation and allow for unaffected units to continue visitation following an isolated positive COVID 19 result. We have been made aware that this is being considered and we will keep you informed as soon as we are notified.   

We will continue with window visits while we are waiting notification from the NYSDOH.

Please call Janet Kibassa at 718-304-1826 to schedule a window visit.  Visits will be Monday through Friday. We cannot accommodate weekend visits at this time.  Visits will be for 30 minutes. 

If there are additional cases among staff or residents that would necessitate suspension of visitation, we will continue window visits until in person visitation can resume.  We will continue to keep you updated as things progress.  As always, we thank you for your patience and understanding.

May God bless you and your families.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack                                                      Sister M. Kevin Patricia Lynch
Administrator                                                              CEO

March 13, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

As you are aware on March 10, 2021 CMS issued new guidelines regarding nursing home visitation.  We are still waiting for clarification from the New York State Department of Health (“DOH”) and as of this date they have not adopted or implemented these recommendations.  Our primary concern is for the safety and well-being of all of our residents.  As such, we will be sending you further information as soon as DOH issues their directives.    We are currently under a 14-day period of restricted visitation due to the positive cases we reported to you this past week.  Under both the new CMS guidelines and the DOH mandates (issued on February 22, 2021), restriction must remain in place pending further testing by our Home. 

Currently, one of our staff has tested positive for COVID-19.  This person was fully vaccinated and does not work in a patient care area. This person is asymptomatic and will be furloughed for the required 14 days. We are repeating the test today to ascertain whether or not it was a false positive result.  Our window visits will continue until March 23, 2021 and we will continue to keep you updated.  We are also pleased to report that all residents were tested this week and there were no positive results returned. 

I would refer to the letter of March 9, 2021 where it was explained that it is possible for a person who is fully vaccinated to test positive and test negative just days later.  There have been cases noted of false positive as well as false negative results.  We continue to take all precautions for any staff member or resident who tests positive.  We will continue to follow the protocol set forth by the NYSDOH regarding isolation and return to work procedures, whether or not this person’s second test returns negative results.

We receive notifications and new material each day regarding isolation procedures, mandatory testing, infection control requirements, and vaccination protocols.  We are following all recommendations from CMS, NYSDOH, and the CDC regarding COVID-19.   We will keep you updated as things progress.  We are hopeful that the vaccine will continue to slow the spread of this virus and certainly reduce the number of those needing medical intervention.

May God bless you and those you care for and care about.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack                                                      Sister M. Kevin Patricia Lynch
Administrator                                                              CEO

March 11, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

Many of you may have heard that CMS has issued new guidelines for visitation in nursing homes.  While this appears to open up visitation without restrictions, what the media did not tell you is that there are some guidelines to be followed.  We are waiting for the official word in print from the New York State Department of Health and I will summarize what we know so far for you.

CMS has stated that outdoor visitation is still preferred.  For responsible indoor visitation to take place:

• Limitations should be put in place for unvaccinated residents if the COVID-19 positivity rate is above 10%
• Residents with confirmed COVID-19 infection whether vaccinated or unvaccinated until they have met the criteria to discontinue transmission Based precautions.
• Residents in quarantine, whether vaccinated or unvaccinated, until they have met the criteria for release form quarantine.

Precautions should still be followed including masks and social distancing, and touch can be allowed during the visit for fully vaccinated residents.  None of the visitation testing requirements change your testing requirements.  Visitors must continue to be screened and visitors who have been in contact with someone who has been exposed to COVID must be restricted from visiting – even if you or the resident have been fully vaccinated.    (For your information,  CMS does not consider a person to be “fully” vaccinated until 14 days after they have received all required doses of a vaccine.)

The following is a very important specification that is outlined in the plan:

“During an outbreak, even if it’s a single case among a resident or staff member, providers must suspend visitation until an entire round of outbreak testing is conducted.  Visits may resume if testing shows the outbreak is contained, if not providers must stop visits for 14 days after their new case”

This would limit the time visitation is suspended until the results of all retesting are returned. In most cases results are returned within 2-3 days.  It there is no further case identified visitation will be able to resume.  This would certainly shorten the time we are required to wait, but we still must follow the guidelines set. 

To see accurate and official guidance, please read the CMS letter to State Survey Directors available at the following link:

https://www.cms.gov/files/document/qso-20-39-nh-revised.pdf

We will provide you with a new FAQ once DOH reviews and implements these guidelines.

This has been an extremely frustrating time for all of us and we are waiting the official word from the NYSDOH with the guidelines clarified.  As soon as they are received you will be notified.  We ask that you continue to be patient with us as we proceed with caution.

Just as many of you have voiced concerns regarding exposed staff bringing COVID into the facility, we are concerned that someone visiting will also do the same.  We ask that you continue to be vigilant.  If there is a chance that you may have been exposed to the virus, please wait to visit until the required 14-day observation is completed.  We continue to do all we can to keep your loved ones safe.  We have come a long way since the beginning of this pandemic and are hopeful for the future.

As you are aware, we do have one resident who tested positive.  We have retested all residents last evening and are awaiting the results.  All staff were re-tested this week as well and we are awaiting the results.  As soon as we receive clarification from the NYSDOH we will inform you and hopefully will be able to resume responsible visitation.

May God bless you and keep you safe and we move forward with hope and caution.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack                                                      Sister M. Kevin Patricia Lynch
Administrator                                                              CEO

March 9, 2021 

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

We hope that all of you are remaining safe as we continued to emerge from this very difficult time in our lives and into the recovery phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic. As many of you know, it is our obligation to ensure transparency and reporting regarding positive COVID-19 cases at St. Patrick's Home. We are glad to report that ther.e has been only 1 resident who tested positive yesterday. More importantly, the resident had received the COVID-19 vaccine and is not symptomatic.

Some family members and residents have asked why testing continues to show positive results despite the great efforts we have undertaken at Infection Control within our Home. It also seems odd that individuals who are vaccinated would test positive. However, this is not unexpected. First, there have been situations where staff or residents test positive at one point in time but then test negative just days later. Such inconsistencies could be due to the either false positives or false negatives in the testing results. No COVID-19 test is 100% reliable. For your information, we take precautions whether or not a resident or staff test positive or have  no symptoms. Second, just because a person is vaccinated does not mean that they also could not test posit ive . Being vaccinated does protect you against being hospitalized as well as death from COVID-19, however, it may not protect against less severe symptoms or from simply having the virus in their system without symptoms. Depending on the timing of the vaccine and the presence of a possible infection, there have been reports of positive cases after vaccination.

We will provide more educational materials in the future as the science begins to answer some of these seemingly contradictory results. The good news is that the vaccines are working to dramatically improve our health. We hope that the great stress and anxiety caused by the COVID-19 Pandemic will begin to lessen as more information is provided by authorized agencies. We are also thankful that the more severe symptoms of COVID-19 such as hospitalizations and deaths have reduced dramatically by the vaccine.

Thank you for your continued patience and for the love shown by family and friends for the residents at our Home.

May God bless you and keep you safe.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

March 7, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

Two of our staff members have tested positive for COVID-19. We will continue with Window Visits until March 18, 2021. Please keep your scheduled appointments for these visits and call Christine Deluca at 718-304-1807 or Janet Kibassa at 718-304-1826 to schedule an In-Person visit after March 18, 2021.

We will continue to keep you updated as things progress. God bless you.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

March 5, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

This is to inform you that one of our staff has tested positive for COVID-19. This person does not provide direct resident care and has taken the vaccine. While to test results may be questionable, we still have to follow the procedure set forth by the DOH regarding the 14 Day mandate.

For anyone who is scheduled for an In Person visit between March 11, 2021 and March 15, 2021, we ask that you keep that same day and time slot for a Window Visit and call to reschedule an In Person visit beginning on March 16, 2021. We are trying to accommodate visits any way that we can while keeping within the guidelines.

We will continue to keep you updated as things progress and will also keep you informed of any and all new guidelines set forth by the CDC, DOH and CMS.

May God bless you.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

March 1, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

Two of our staff members tested positive for Covid-19. All residents have tested negative this week. We will be scheduling In-Person Visits beginning on March 11, 2021 in keeping with the 14-day Mandate set forth by the NYSDOH. While this is frustrating to all of us, there is nothing we can do until the NYSDOH changes that mandate.

We will continue to have Window Visits ongoing and you may call this week to schedule your In-Person Visit and/or Window visit with Christine DeLuca at 718-304-1807 or email her at cdeluca@stpatrickshome.org.

Please refer to the Family Update of February 24, 2021 for the parameters for the In-Person Visits. We need to comply with all the guidelines set forth by the NYSDOH which includes social distancing, COVID testing for those visiting, specified times and numbers of persons visiting.

Thank you for your continued patience and understanding. May God continue to bless you and keep you safe and well. We look forward to seeing you at your window or in person visit.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack                                                      Sister M. Kevin Patricia Lynch
Administrator                                                              CEO

Previous Updates

 February 26, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

Two of our staff members tested this week had their tests return with positive results.  It is to be noted that we will continue to schedule appointments for 

In-Person Visitation for the week of March 8, 2021, counting 14 days from when these tests were taken.  Barring any further positive results, we plan to have these visits as scheduled.  If any positive results are returned next week, we will have to adjust the date and revert to window visits in the meantime.  We hope that this will not be the case.  The window visits presently scheduled will continue as planned.

We will keep you updated of any further developments.

As always thank you for your continued patience and understanding.  

God bless you.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

February 23, 2021

Dear Families, Friends and Residents,

One of our staff has tested positive for COVID-19 and has been furloughed for the mandatory 14-Day requirement. All residents have tested negative this week.

We continue to utilize our COVID wing for any suspected cases, hospital transfers, and positive cases identified as per CDC, CMS, and DOH guidelines. This wing will remain in use indefinitely.

We are reviewing the newest information from the DOH regarding visitation and I will be updating you shortly. One thing that has not changed is that the facility needs to be 14 days COVID free before in house visiting can resume. Barring no further cases identified we should be able to begin scheduling after March 6, 2021. As you are aware this could change on any given day. There are also specific requirements that need to be met for visitors as well. I will forward the information regarding the policies, procedures, and requirements once they are clarified.

Thank you for your support and understanding as we move forward through this pandemic.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

February 14, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

This is to inform you that one of our residents has tested positive for COVID-19. This resident has received both doses of the vaccine and has been moved to the COVID Unit for the mandatory 14-day observation period. The resident was immediately re-tested, and we are awaiting results. All staff have been tested twice this week and all staff tests were negative. We continue to test all residents weekly and all residents were tested on 2/10/2021. All residents will be re-tested today, 2/14/2021.

We will continue to keep you updated as things progress. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack 

February 8, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

This is to inform you that two of our staff and one residents have tested positive for COVID-19. All have taken the vaccine. The resident and her roommate have been moved to the COVID unit. All other residents have tested negative. All residents were tested on February 5, 2021 and will be retested this week. The residents on the unit affected were retested yesterday. The staff will be furloughed for the mandatory 14-day isolation period. All units are maintaining Droplet and Enhanced Precautions. We continue to test all staff twice per week and residents weekly.

We continue to be in contact with the Department of Health regarding all positive results. We are continuing to follow all DOH and CDC guidelines regarding the transmission and prevention of the spread of COVID-19. More of our staff will be receiving their second dose of the vaccine on February 18, 2021.

We will be unable to have In-Person visits until after February 22, 2021. We will continue to inform you of any changes as they occur. Thank you for your understanding and patience during these trying times.

May God bless you.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

January 29, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

This is to inform you that four of our staff have tested positive for COVID-19.  All have been furloughed for the required 14-day period.  All residents were tested this week, and all remain negative.  All residents will be re-tested today and tomorrow. 

We will continue to schedule Window Visits for those residents who are not on affected units.  Please call Christine DeLuca after February 2, 2021 to schedule your visit.  If your resident is on a unit that is affected, she will inform you and give you the date when visits will resume for that particular unit.  Christine can be reached at 718-304-1807.

We have received our second dose and for some, the first dose of the COVID Vaccine on 1/27 and 1/28.  We will have another Vaccine Clinic on 2/18 to complete the prescribed dosing of the vaccine for residents and staff. 

Be sure of our continued prayers for you and your families.  May you remain well and safe.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

January 27, 2021 

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

One of our staff has tested positive for COVID-19. We will be limiting Window Visits on specific units. We will begin to schedule Window Visits after February 2, 2021. When you call you will be informed as to whether or not your resident is on a floor that is restricted.

Please call Christine DeLuca at 718-519-1807 after February 2, 2021 to schedule a Window Visit. At this time all In-Person Visits are on hold. We will inform you as to when these may resume. We continue to test all staff twice weekly. All residents are also tested weekly and no additional residents have had a positive result.

Today, the residents and staff received their second dose of the COVID Vaccine. Tomorrow another group of staff will receive their first dose of the vaccine. We are fortunate to have this available to us and are optimistic that this will help in combating this virus moving forward.

Please be sure of our continued prayer for you and your families. May God bless you and keep you safe.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

January 24, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

This is to inform you that two of our staff have tested positive for COVID-19. It is to be noted that neither of these staff members provide direct patient care. Both will be furloughed for the mandatory 14-day period. All visits will be on hold until after February 4, 2021.

No additional residents tested positive this week. All in house Infection Control precautions remain in place. We will be receiving our second dose of the vaccine on Wednesday and Thursday of this week.

We continue to pray for an end to this pandemic and for the safety of you and your families. May God continue to bless you.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

January 21, 2021 

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

This is to inform you that one staff member has tested positive for COVID-19 this week. This person will be furloughted for the madatory 14-day period. All visits including Window Visits will be on hold until after February 2, 2021.

No additional residents have tested positive this week and for this we are grateful. We continue to test all the residents weekly and staff twice per week.

We will continue to keep you informed of any changes and updated test results. We continue to pray for you as well and ask God to bless you and keep you and your families safe.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

 January 18, 2021

Dear Family and Friends,

This is to inform you that two of our residents have tested positive for COVID-19.  These residents were identified through routine testing and are asymptomatic.  One resident was already on standard isolation precautions as is policy with all new admissions.  The other resident from a different floor recently received the first dose of the COVID vaccine. These residents are now in the COVID isolation unit and will remain there for 14 days.

We are not and have not accepted any new residents unless they have a negative test result.  We are currently conducting contact tracing.  All residents and staff on the affected units are quarantined.  We are retesting all residents today and will continue to test weekly. All staff are tested twice a week as directed by the Department of Health.

We are doing all that we can to keep our residents safe. We continue to pray for you and your families during these times.  May God continue to bless you.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

January 16, 2021

Dear Family and Friends,

This is to inform you that one of our staff members has tested positive for COVID-19.  No additional residents have tested positive the week.  All Visits including Window Visits will be on hold until after January 30, 2021. 

Please be sure of our continued prayers for you and your families.  Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

January 15, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

This is to inform you that five of our staff have tested positive for COVID-19.  These staff members do not work in the same Departments.  All Visits including Window Visits will be on hold until after January 30, 2021. 

We know and understand how frustrating and difficult this is for everyone ourselves included.  No additional residents have tested positive this week and we are most grateful for that.

Please be sure of our continued prayers for you and your families. 

May you remain well and safe.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack
Administrator

January 10, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

This is to inform you that yesterday one of our residents received a positive COVID -19 test result. We believe this may be a false positive as we did a Rapid Test as soon as we were informed which turned out to be negative. Another COVID nasal swab test was also immediately done and we are awaiting the results. The resident has no symptoms. Contact tracing revealed that none of the staff members taking care of this resident in the past two weeks tested positive for COVID. We are testing staff twice per week. All other residents remain negative. It is to be noted that we have not had any positive test results since October 2020 when one resident also without symptoms tested positive. All residents on this particular floor as well as staff were retested immediately.

While this may be a false positive, we still need to follow the protocols set forth by the DOH and CDC. The resident and the resident’s roommate (who is negative and without symptoms) were moved to the COVID wing for 14 days. Testing of all residents and staff continues. Staff utilize full PPE when working on this wing. We will be staggering all window visits until January 20, 2021. When you call to make your appointment Christine DeLuca (718-304-1807) will let you know when your family member’s floor is able to have a visit.

These are distressing and frustrating times. Please know that we are doing all that we can to keep our residents safe. We continue to hope and pray that the vaccine will be instrumental in combating this virus. We are scheduled to receive our second dose on January 27, 2021. Thank you for your kindness, support, and understanding.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack
Administrator

January 9, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

One of our staff tested positive for COVID-19. We will continue our Window Visits until January 20, 2021. This person will be furloughed for 14 days as per regulation. Beginning this week, we will be testing all staff twice per week. All residents continue to be tested weekly and all remain negative.

We continue to pray for an end to this pandemic and that you and your loved ones are well and safe.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack
Administrator

January 7, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

One of our staff has tested positive for COVID-19.  We will continue our Window Visits until January 15, 2021.  We continue to test all staff weekly.  The Governor has issued an Executive Order mandating that all staff in nursing homes be tested twice per week, which we will begin on Sunday, January 10, 2021.  All residents continue to test negative. 

We received our first round of the COVID vaccine yesterday.  CVS Pharmacy, who is overseeing the program, will be back on January 27, 2021 to issue the second dose of the vaccine for the residents and those staff who were vaccinated yesterday.  They will vaccinate remaining staff on January 28, 2021 with their first dose.  

As we continue this New Year, we are hopeful and pray for an end to this pandemic.  May God continue to bless you and your families.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack
Administrator

January 5, 2021

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

Please be informed that one of our staff has tested positive for COVID-19.  This person does not provide any direct patient care.  We will continue Window Visits until January 15, 2021 as planned.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we continue to navigate through this pandemic.  We will be receiving the first dose of our Vaccine tomorrow, January 6, 2021.

May God continue to bless you now and throughout the year.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

December 31, 2020

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

This is to inform you that one of our staff members has tested positive for COVID-19 today.  While this is discouraging, we can take comfort in the fact that all residents who continue to be tested weekly remain negative.

We will be receiving the first dose of the COVID Vaccine on Wednesday, January 6, 2021.  It cannot come soon enough, and we encourage all staff to take the vaccine as well as residents. 

We will continue Window Visits and FaceTime Visits until January 15, 2021. 

We hope and pray that you remain safe and healthy in the New Year and that the Lord continue to bless you and your families.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

December 23, 2020

St. Patrick’s Home Update

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

I am sorry to have to inform you that an additional staff member has tested positive for COVID-19. This employee will be furloughed until January 3, 2021. We will continue our Window Visits until then, excluding the floors that are on Droplet Precautions due to positive results. When you call to schedule your visit, you will be informed as to whether your resident’s floor is under precautions.

All residents remain negative and are tested weekly. We continue to follow DOH, CMS, and CDC guidelines regarding infection control, sanitation procedures, and proper PPE usage. We hope and pray that the New Year brings some relief from this pandemic.

May God continue to bless you and keep you and your loved ones safe and well.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

December 22, 2020

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

This is to inform you that another member of our staff has tested positive for COVID-19.  This staff member has been furloughed until January 2, 2021.  We have retested all staff and residents and will continue to do so.  Thus far there are no additional positive results received from this testing.  This staff member did not work on the nursing units.

Our Window visits will continue to be scheduled.  If there are no further positive results, we will proceed as planned with scheduling In-Person Visits after January 2, 2021. 

We will be contacting you again as soon as our consent forms for the COVID Vaccine are received.  We continue to pray that this vaccine will give us some relief from this virus and contribute to a safe environment for our residents and all who have been suffering from this pandemic.

May the Lord bless you during this Christmas Season and keep you safe and well.  May you experience peace and joy in the New Year.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack

December 18, 2020

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

I am sorry to inform you that two of our staff members have tested positive for COVID-19. These staff members are from different departments and do not work together. We have taken the necessary precautions and they will be furloughed until January 2, 2021. In-Person visits will be cancelled until that date. Some Window Visits will need to be rescheduled as some of the floors will be on Precautions until January 2nd. Please contact Christine DeLuca at 718-304-1807  to schedule or re-schedule your visit.

This is as distressing for us as it is for you, especially at this time of the year. The good news is that all our residents remain negative, so the precautions we are taking are effective. We are doing everything in our power to keep your loved ones safe during this time.

We look forward to the administration of the vaccine to help alleviate this virus that has plagued us for so long. If you have not already done so, please call your Social Worker as outlined in my last update to let them know if you will be giving consent to administering the vaccine for your resident.

Thank you for your continued understanding and patience as we go through this pandemic. Our prayers are with and for you as we enter a New Year filled with renewed hope and peace.

May God Bless You.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane Mack
Administrator

December 17, 2020

Dear Family, Friends, and Residents,

We have been notified that one of our staff has tested positive for Covid-19. As a result, we will be extending the cancellation of our In-Person Visits until after January 2, 2021. We will continue to have window visits and will do our best to accommodate as many as possible during this time. All remaining staff and all residents remain negative. We will continue to test all staff weekly. We will be testing all residents weekly until the 14-day period of isolation is completed.

On a positive note we have been notified from CVS Pharmacy that we will be receiving the Pfizer Covid-19 Vaccine and the dates have been set for St. Patrick’s Home. We will be receiving the first dose of the vaccine for our residents and some of the staff on January 6, 2021 with the second dose on January 27, 2021. On January 27, 2021 we will also be vaccinating the remainder of the staff with their first dose and their second dose will follow on February 17, 2021. As mentioned in my previous Update, timing is very tight and we will need to get the consent forms signed as soon as possible. We will be calling for you to stop by to do so as soon as we receive them.

In the meantime, as stated in my last letter, please call or email Colleen McCooey if your resident is on the 4th or 6th floors. She can be reached at 718-304-1853, Colleen@stpatrickshome.org. Please call or email Karalyn McNab if your resident is on the 5th or 8th floor. She can be reached at 718-304-1864, kmcnab@stpatrickshome.org. Please call or email Laura Salcedo if your resident is on the 3rd or 7th floor. She can be reached at 718-304-1830, lsalcedo@stpatrickshome.org. Please let them know if you are consenting to having your resident receive the vaccine. We will also be speaking with those residents who may make decisions on their own behalf to see whether they wish to receive the vaccine. This is so that we can compile a list and an estimated number of the vaccines we will be needing.

Please know that we will monitor all residents who received the vaccine for any and all side effects and will treat them promptly. We will keep you updated with any further information as soon as we receive it.

May God continue to bless you and keep you safe and well during this Christmas Season. Know that we keep all of you in our prayers daily.

Sincerely,

Sister Diane