I wanted to check in and give you all an update on our supplies.  We are currently well stocked on gloves, hand soap, and paper towels.  We will continue making these deliveries as usual.  Hand sanitizer is still on backorder and we have no timeframe of when it will be available.  A precious friend of mine donated a box of sanitizer from her classroom to help us during this time.  The supply is very limited and will be distributed first to our vent/trach patients and patients at higher risk for respiratory illnesses or to homes that have a large amount of staff in and out each week.

The CDC is now stating that healthcare workers should wear a mask, if available.

We were very blessed to be given 200 procedure masks by our local EMA.  Chris made some deliveries last week but will continue to do so this week.  We are placing the masks individually in a plastic bag.  Chris will be leaving them at the homes in a manila folder labeled STAFF.  We put enough masks in the folder for each staff member to have one.  The masks should be reused until they become visibly soiled, wet, or torn.  If you have access to a homemade mask, we encourage you to use them and wash them after each shift.  Our supply is very limited, and we will go through them very quickly at this point.

Here’s a link to making a homemade mask with no sewing needed:
https://www.wthr.com/article/watch-surgeon-general-demonstrates-easy-way-make-your-own-face-mask

As a reminder, DO NOT report to work if you or anyone in your household is experiencing fever, a cough, or shortness of breath.  Notify the office IMMEDIATELY for further guidance.

We are so thankful for each of you and appreciate all the hard work you are doing out there.  I hope you are all taking care of yourself and staying well.