Dear Living to the Max (LTTM) clients and families,
Re: Coronavirus (COVID-19) update
We write to update you on our management measures in relation to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in Australia.
LTTM continue to deliver in-home services to our clients. We are frequently reviewing health alerts and updates and are committed to informing you if changes to our current services are required. We have implemented additional screening for clients on admission and will also be screening clients prior to each in-home visit.
Our staff receive training in infection prevention and control and we have universal health precautions in place. Our aim is to keep our clients, their families and staff at LTTM safe during this pandemic.
There are a number of protective measures against the virus that we are asking all clients to follow during this time, which include:
- If you, or another person who will be present during a LTTM in-home visit, have been in contact with someone who has a suspected or a confirmed case of the virus you must advise a LTTM staff member as soon as possible. OTs will refrain from entering your home until further guidance has been
- If you, or another person who will be present during a LTTM in-home visit, have recently travelled to a higher risk country (currently China, Iran, Italy and Republic of Korea) you must advise a LTTM staff member as soon as possible. OTs will refrain from entering your home until further guidance has been
- If you, or another person who will be present during a LTTM in-home visit is currently in self-isolation due to returning from overseas you must advise a LTTM staff member as soon as possible. OTs will refrain from entering your home until further guidance has been
Of equal importance is the health and safety of our clients and their families. As such, we have now put in place a daily “fit for work” questionnaire for all LTTM staff. If any staff member displays any signs of illness, they are required to stay home. You can therefore be assured that we will never put you or your family at any risk of infection. If your OT is not fit for work, your appointment will be rescheduled promptly.
There is current evidence that suggests the virus is spread from person to person via droplet transmission. Droplet transmission occurs when infected droplets generated during coughing, sneezing and talking are propelled short distances through the air and enter the nasal or oral mucosa of another person. Droplets can also survive for periods of time on objects. It is important that everyone follows effective hygiene practices. Some basic personal hygiene practices have been outlined overleaf:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water (you can also use an alcohol-based hand rub);
- Use a tissue to cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze (covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow is also an option) and perform hand hygiene afterwards; and
- Avoid close contact with others, such as
Symptoms of the virus include fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue and difficulty breathing. If you are concerned or have questions, please contact the Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080. This is a 24/7 hotline to help triage people with respiratory symptoms and those who are concerned about contact with a possible COVID-19 case. We encourage you to stay informed by regularly checking the latest updates on The Australian Government Department of Health website:www.health.gov.au/
If you are generally unwell, please contact LTTM on 8331 0566 to discuss your in-home appointment.
Please take all the necessary precautions to stay healthy.
Yours sincerely,
Darren and Tracie McInnes
Directors
Living to the Max Occupational Therapy Services