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Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions in Nursing Homes and the Fight Against COVID-19
Prism Health
March 13, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 4 minutes
Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions in Nursing Homes and the Fight Against COVID-19
What's New:
A recent study published in Life examines the use of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) to control COVID-19 in nursing homes. Key interventions included high isolation rates for asymptomatic carriers and specific staff scheduling strategies to prevent outbreaks.
Why It Matters:
Nursing home residents, due to their age and health conditions, face significantly higher COVID-19 risks. Over 40% of COVID-19 fatalities in the first pandemic wave were linked to long-term care facilities, underscoring the need for effective containment strategies.
Key Findings and Data:
High Attack Rates: Even with NPIs, infections remained high in scenarios without rigorous isolation of asymptomatic carriers. Without isolation, infection rates stayed near 95%.
Isolation as a Critical Factor: Only a 76% isolation rate of asymptomatic cases significantly reduced the outbreak’s impact when the virus’s reproduction number (R0) was 4.0.
Effective Staff Schedules: Implementing a 4 days on/4 days off schedule with pre-shift quarantine was the most effective strategy, helping to minimize spread by ensuring infected staff remained isolated.
Policy Implications:
Resource Allocation: High rates of RT-PCR surveillance testing in LTCFs are essential for identifying asymptomatic cases.
Staffing Models: Extended off-duty times for staff can help in identifying infections, though these schedules may be challenging in facilities facing staffing shortages.
Go Deeper:
PRISM LTC STATeam Services
Did you know that PRISM provides all of the necessary support services for your Long Term Care facility? These include:
Outbreak Control
UTI Diagnostics & Treatment
Wound Care Management
Telehealth Services
Staffing Solutions
Phlebotomy Services
Routine Vaccinations
Let PRISM help you by providing you with the support you need to carry you through all of the seasons of the year. With 500+ facilities served and 35+ years of experience, we’ve got you covered.
Many of Prism’s services are provided at no direct cost to facilities. If applicable, we do bill the resident’s insurance, but with no cost sharing. We never balance bill. Our approach ensures quality care and compliance with all regulatory requirements, making it easier for you to focus on what matters most—your residents.
Book a Call With Us
Curious about utilizing Prism’s services for your facility? Book a free call with us at the Calendly link below:
Contact Us:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 888-977-4086
Website: www.prism.org/ltc
Best regards,
The PRISM LTC STATeam
Disclaimer: The following statement serves as a disclaimer from Prism Holistic Care Ltd., DBA Prism Health (“Prism”), an independent physician practice and laboratory (CLIA ID 14D0889595). The services provided by the LTC STATeam were previously made possible through an agreement with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). These services have now transitioned to a private payor reimbursement model. PRISM explicitly states that it does not operate on behalf of or as an agent of IDPH. Any services provided by PRISM will be billed to the resident’s insurer. Please be aware that certain services (e.g., vaccinations) are fully covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and some private insurances with no cost sharing. PRISM offers a range of other services including management consulting, staffing, laboratory, wound care, telemedicine, orthopedics, dental, vision, and health insurance services. Any services that are the financial responsibility of the facility or resident will be explicitly agreed upon prior to any party incurring any costs. This disclaimer is intended to ensure transparency, prevent misinterpretation, and avoid any confusion regarding the scope and limitations of our services. For more information and clarification regarding the services provided by the LTC STATeam, please contact Prism’s Department of Compliance at [email protected].