Expect false positives: FDA letter to providers explains COVID antigen test results
By
Alicia Lasek
Nov 05, 2020
The agency clarifies that rapid antigen tests, “like all diagnostic tests,” are subject to false positive results, especially in low prevalence settings. It offers recommendations for administering...
U.S. reps launch ‘much-needed’ LTC infection control and prevention caucus
By
Alicia Lasek
Jun 30, 2021
A new bipartisan congressional caucus will identify opportunities for sorely needed infection control and prevention reform legislation in long-term care, say the two Florida representatives who spearheaded...
Long-term care remains in the dark about infection preventionist requirements
By
Kimberly Marselas
Apr 13, 2021
The need for infection preventionists has never been greater, but 13 months into the COVID-19 pandemic, long-term care providers still remain in the dark as to who will fit the federal government’s final...
Factor in chills, lesser-known symptoms to better detect COVID-19, study shows
By
Alicia Lasek
Feb 16, 2021
Factoring four overlooked COVID-19 symptoms into testing efforts significantly improves detection, investigators say.
Avoid ‘over-reliance’ on respirators, OSHA urges LTC operators in new guidance
By
Alicia Lasek
Nov 05, 2020
The agency has issued new respiratory protection guidance for long-term care industry workers with the goal of preserving supplies of N95 face masks.
Ask The Care Expert: Sherri Dornberger
Jun 05, 2017
With all of the talk about infection prevention, I was wondering is there any literature or information on storing our updraft and oxygen tubing?
Stop antigen testing in skilled nursing facilities, Nevada tells operators
By
Alicia Lasek
Oct 09, 2020
Nursing facilities in Nevada have been ordered to stop using COVID-19 rapid antigen tests due to apparent diagnostic inaccuracies. Health officials say they will gather more data before issuing updated...
Providers must guard against negative mental effects of quarantine, researchers say
By
Alicia Lasek
Mar 05, 2020
Lasting repercussions are less likely when patients are given a clear rationale for quarantine, clear information about protocols, and additional supports.
CMS releases updated Phase 3 guidance
By
Danielle Brown
Jun 29, 2022
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on Wednesday released updated guidance for nursing home surveyors as part of the Phase 2 and 3 Requirements of Participation.
FDA publishes face mask, respirator FAQs for healthcare providers
By
Alicia Lasek
Nov 30, 2020
The new webpage includes links to detailed information on a variety of subjects, including how to report shortages of face masks, surgical masks and respirators.