HospitalInspections.org

Based on document review, observation, and interview, it was determined that the Hospital failed to follow their infection control prevention program related to their exposure plan for COVID-19, by not ensuring that employees are screened upon entrance to the Hospital. This could affect and potentially expose approximately 250 patients on the current census and 2,586 staff members, with the COVID-19 virus.

Findings include:

1. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention and Control Recommendations for Healthcare Personnel During Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic (dated 7/15/2020), was reviewed on 9/2/2020, and required, "1. Recommend routine infection prevention and control (IPC) practices during the COVID-19 pandemic: Screen everyone (patients, HCP [healthcare care personnel], visitors) entering the healthcare facility for symptoms consistent with COVID-19...Actively take their temperature and document absence of symptoms consistent with COVID-19..."

2. On 9/1/2020 at approximately 8:30 AM, two unidentified hospital employees were observed entering the building and walking past the Main Entrance's staff, without being screened for COVID-19.

3. On 9/2/2020 at approximately 9:55 AM, an interview was conducted with the Infection Prevention Manager (E #11). E #11 stated that the employees are not screened upon entrance to the Hospital. Screening is to include a temperature check before coming to work and the employee should not come to work if he/she has COVID symptoms. E #11 stated that the Hospital expects the employees to screen at home and the "Honor System" is in place with the expectation that the staff are screening on their own.

4. On 9/2/2020 at 11:50 AM, an interview was conducted with an Operational Supervisor (E #15). E # 15 stated that we (staff) are not screened upon entering the building.