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MOUNT SINAI WEST
INFECTION CONTROL PROGRAM
Tag No.: A0749
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Based on observation, review of document and interview, the facility failed to implement measures to prevent the transmission of COVID-19 as per current guidance issued by the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Specifically, the facility failed to screen all staff at the beginning of their shift for fever and signs of respiratory illness in 16 of 16 staff interviewed.
This failure may result in the spread of COVID-19.
Findings include:
Review of CDC Infection Control Guidance updated May 18, 2020 notes, " ...As part of routine practice, Health Care Personnel (HCP) should be asked to regularly monitor themselves for fever and symptoms of COVID-19 ...Screen all HCP at the beginning of their shift for fever and symptoms consistent with COVID-19. Actively take their temperature and document absence of symptoms consistent with COVID-19. If they are ill, have them keep their cloth face covering or facemask on and leave the workplace."
Observations conducted at the facility entrances and in the patient care units on 07/08 and 07/09/20 revealed Health Care Personnel were not screened at the beginning of their shift for fever and signs and symptoms of COVID-19.
On July 09, 2020, at 10:25 AM, during facility rounds, interviews were conducted with sixteen (16) employees including, but not limited to security officers and patient screeners at the hospital entrance points. All sixteen (16) employees reported that they are not being screened for fever and signs and symptoms of COVID-19 upon entering the facility or at the beginning of their shift.
On July 08, 2020, at 10:20 AM, during an interview with Staff A (Vice President Chief Nursing Officer), she stated that the facility instructed staff to self-monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID -19 and fever, and report any positive screen to their managers and the Employee Health Department.
On July 08, 2020, at 10:59 AM, during an interview with Staff B (Epidemiologist), she acknowledged that employees are not screened in accordance with CDC guidance.