ICCS Infection Prevention & Infection Control Newsletter: November 2020
This issue covers some of the most significant news and guidance from November as well as links to a few noteworthy stories from October. Topics include the future of infection prevention, COVID-19 lessons, nursing homes, N95-style masks, and disposable gowns.
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Future of Infection Prevention: Q&A With Consultant Phenelle Segal — ICCS Founder Phenelle Segal, RN, CIC, FAPIC, answered 10 questions concerning infection prevention in the COVID-19 era.
COVID-19 Lessons Learned at Nine Months — Read the latest column by Phenelle in Healthcare Hygiene magazine.
Nursing Homes Fined for COVID Infection Control Lapses — MedPage Today's analysis of the latest federal data revealed that CMS has fined more than 200 nursing homes about $18 million for the most serious infection control violations.
Imported N95-Style Masks May Pose Safety Risks — Research by ECRI indicated that 7 out of 10 imported, N95-style masks do not meet safety standards.
Regular Surveys Resume at Nursing Homes, But CMS Treads Carefully With Enforcement Penalties — This McKnight's Long-Term Care News' report echoed what we previously stated: "You should start to see, if you haven’t already, some of your state survey agencies coming out and conducting standard surveys or complaint surveys for complaints that came during the pandemic."
More than Half of Disposable Gowns ECRI Tested Fail to Meet Necessary Protection Standards — ECRI cautioned against gowns made outside United States or by non-traditional manufacturers.
Study: Doctors' Phones Too Often Contaminated by MRSA — This study served as a helpful reminder about the importance of cleaning and disinfecting mobile technology and performing proper hand hygiene.
U.S. Department of Labor Issues Respiratory Protection Guidance for Long-Term Care Facilities During the Coronavirus Pandemic — OSHA issued respiratory protection guidance for nursing homes, assisted living, and other long-term care facilities.
ISMP Provides Recommendation for Organizations Preparing for COVID-19 Vaccine Administration — The Institute for Safe Medication Practices issued recommendations for preparing for flu and COVID-19 vaccination campaigns.
10 of the Scariest Healthcare Infections and Threats (2020 Edition) — For the second consecutive year, the ICCS team identified 10 of the scariest healthcare infections and threats.
OSHA Outlines New Enforcement Discretion Policy for Respiratory Protection — OSHA issued a memorandum that provides temporary enforcement guidance concerning tight-fitting powered air-purifying respirators used during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Phenelle Segal Presents Webinar on the Future of Infection Prevention — Phenelle presented a webinar titled "The future of infection prevention: Expert insights on the lasting impact of COVID-19" for McKesson. The recording is available for complimentary viewing.
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