While the region got some bad news Friday as it descended into the dreaded COVID-19 Red Zone, there was a glimmer of hope in Penetanguishene.
“I am pleased to announce that our Tomkins House team have all returned negative COVID tests,” said Debbie Kesheshian, executive director for the local hospice.
“This has been a true learning opportunity and we want to share with you some thoughts on how to protect yourself and your loved ones.”
Earlier this week, the organization announced a member of its nursing team had tested positive for COVID-19. The infection was related to the outbreak at Georgian Bay General Hospital, which has now reported 23 positive cases, involving 17 staff members and six inpatients, one of whom has since died.
At the time, Kesheshian noted that the hospice team member had not cared for patients at Tomkins House in the immediate days prior to infection, but did interact with other team members the previous week.
While acknowledging the risk was very low, the hospice took a proactive approach by swabbing all staff members for COVID.
All volunteers, patients and family members were deemed to be at very low risk as they did not interact with the team member who tested positive and were advised to seek the advice of their physician or the health unit if they felt unwell and needed further assistance.
And having now gone through experience, Kesheshian offered some advice for others, besides the usual precautions such as wearing a mask (medical grade is preferred) and goggles or glasses if you’re worried.
“Eat and drink separately - this was our problem - dropping our mask to take a sip of coffee or water while not being six feet apart,” Kesheshian said.
“Being in a relatively risk free community made us all a little complacent. Lesson learned!”
Kesheshian said they plan to keep their visitor restrictions tight, especially as Simcoe Muskoka enters into the Red Zone.
“We will limit people in our home at Tomkins House, including our beloved volunteers just until we come out of Red,” she said, noting that those needing bereavement support during this difficult time, can call the hospice at (705) 549-1034.
“We are here to help. We will continue to work with the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit to ensure we are doing everything we can to minimize our risk.
“Please continue to keep our teammate who is recovering at home in your thoughts and thank you to everyone who has sent their well wishes, it means so much.”
