- This instruction replaces the last order from Dr. Stanwick re: acute care transfers:
A. Dr. Stanwick’ s previous order is rescinded
B. The following instruction applies to ALL reasons for acute care transfer, including any patients who have tested positive for COVID-19:
C. The new instructions are that for ANY LTC patient who requires transfer to an acute care facility for ANY reason MUST have these actions completed prior to transfer:
i. the LTC resident must have acute respiratory symptom screening and temperature check prior to transfer
ii. Acute respiratory symptom screening and temperature must be reported to BC ambulance by the LTC home staff, AND whether COVID 19 testing is pending or positive.
iii. LTC home staff must also communicate the acute respiratory symptom screening AND whether COVID 19 testing is pending or positive to the receiving facility (eg. ER, XRAY department).
iv. In the event that we have confirmed case(s) of COVID-19 in the facility, the MHO should be notified about a planned transfer
D, Do not delay calling 911 in an emergency situation when it aligns with the patient’s goals of care and is essential to the comfort or medical needs of the patient.
E. The medical health officer does not need to approve any transfer to an acute care facility that is deemed essential to the medical care or comfort of the patient.
- For transfers to acute care that are not an emergency, a physician/NP must be involved in the decision to transfer if it is safe for the patient to wait for that discussion. The physician/NP must communicate with the receiving physician (eg. emergency room physician) about the transfer to ensure that the patient can be safely received, and that no alternative is available to provide care in the LTC home.
Sincerely,
Dr. Margaret Manville, Medical Director Long Term Care