HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation, staff interview, review of facility documents, and review of Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines, it was determined that the facility failed to implement guidelines to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in eight (8) out of ten (10) tables occupied in the main cafeteria.

Findings include:

Reference: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Healthcare Personnel During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic, https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/infection-control-recommendations.html, updated November 4, 2020 states, "... Encourage Physical Distancing... when possible, physical distancing (maintaining at least 6 feet between people) is an important strategy to prevent SARS-CoV-2 transmission. ... Examples of how physical distancing can be implemented for patients include... Arranging seating in waiting rooms so patients can sit at least 6 feet apart. ... For HCP, the potential for exposure to SARS-CoV-2 is not limited to direct patient care interactions. Transmission can also occur through unprotected exposures to asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic co-workers in breakrooms or co-workers or visitors in other common areas. Examples of how physical distancing can be implemented for HCP include... Designating areas and staggered schedules for HCP to take breaks, eat, and drink that allow them to remain at least 6 feet apart from each other, especially when they must be unmasked."

1. During a tour of the Main Cafeteria on 12/18/20 at 2:00 PM, multiple staff and visitors were observed less than six (6) feet apart with their masks down.

a. This large room contained more than two dozen tables. Eight (8) out of ten (10) observed tables were occupied by two (2) people who were eating and talking to one another with their masks down. Each table did not allow the two seated individuals to maintain a minimum distance of six (6) feet.

b. During the tour, Staff #2 confirmed that a maximum of two (2) people were allowed to sit at each table.

c. During an interview at 3:15 PM, Staff #2 confirmed that the Main Cafeteria tables measured a maximum of 36 inches by 36 inches, and a minimum of 30 inches by 30 inches. This did not allow two (2) staff members to maintain a minimum of 6 feet distance while masks were off.