Patient Safety Update

January 17, 2022

Dear Family Members,

The Baltimore County COVID-19 positivity rate remains very high, as are the rates throughout the state. As a result, the Maryland Department of Health Amended Directive and Order regarding Nursing Home Matters has issued a new directive that is effective January 21, 2022. The directive is as follows:

  1. All staff, volunteers, and vendors will test twice a week when the local jurisdiction’s level of community transmission is high (Red). Currently, Baltimore County is in the high or RED zone.
  2. All visitors , regardless of vaccination status, shall be asked to provide proof of a negative test obtained within 72 hours of entry into the facility or agree to be tested onsite using a point of care/rapid test when the local jurisdiction’s level of community transmission is high (Red).
  3. Unfortunately, Stella Maris is unable to test visitors upon arrival.

If a visitor refuses the request to provide proof of a negative test, the visitor shall wear a face covering and physically distance following the core principles of COVID-19 infection prevention:

  • Visitors will be screened for signs and symptoms of COVID-19 upon arrival to Stella Maris.
  • Visitors who have a positive viral test for COVID-19, symptoms of COVID-19, or currently meet the criteria for quarantine should NOT enter the facility.
  • Entry may be denied if the individual has signs and symptoms of COVID-19, or if the individual had close contact with someone with COVID-19 infection during the prior 14 days – regardless of the individual’s vaccination status.
  • Visitor education will be provided to all visitors upon entry to Stella Maris.
  • Face masks must be worn at all times; visitors who do not comply with this guideline may be asked to exit the facility.
  • Visitors must maintain a physical distance of six (6) feet.
  • Visitation is restricted to the resident’s room and/or designated visitation area.
  • Perform frequent handwashing.

Stella Maris remains in outbreak status; however, in compliance with CMS guidelines, visitation will continue.

The My Resident website page:
www.stellamaris.org/myresident
Log in: stellafamily
Password: StellaFamily

Sincerely,

Lisa Stone, LNHA
Sr. VP Operations/Administrator