MANAGING SYMPTOMATIC HEALTHCARE WORKERS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AT A LARGE TERTIARY HEALTHCARE FACILITY IN MELBOURNE: CASE STUDY AND ROLE OF A DEDICATED CASE MANAGEMENT TEAM
Ms Danielle La1, Mr David Spitzkowsky1, Ms Stephanie Spilsbury1, Ms Pauline Bass1
1Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has diversified the role of Infection Prevention. At Alfred Health (AH) this led to the formation of the Case Management Team (CMT) and a dedicated Contact Tracing Team (CTT). Responsibilities of the CMT include assessing healthcare workers (HCW) experiencing COVID-19 like symptoms, providing standardised algorithms on COVID-19 testing, isolation and return to work (RTW) requirements. We review a complex staff assessment and highlight key functions of the CMT.
Method: AH HCWs who are symptomatic, concerned about breaches in PPE or exposure site attendance submit an online self-assessment (SA) form. SA forms are reviewed by the CMT utilizing a responsive algorithm and standardised questions, identifying HCW that require further assessment by the CTT and/or ongoing engagement with the CMT.
Results: An ED nurse reporting respiratory symptoms presented for a COVID-19 test. This HCW had contact with suspected COVID-19 cases and concerns regarding a hand wound that may compromise compliance with PPE management. The CMT discussed furlough leave, re-testing criteria and timing of RTW in the setting of prolonged symptoms. Assessment by the CTT cleared the HCW of a PPE breach.
Conclusion: This case study illustrates the integral role of the CMT in ensuring consistent management and adherence to current recommendations for the management of all HCW in relation to COVID-19 risk. Integration and communication between the CMT and CTT result in a seamless process returning staff safely to work. Future evaluation of the impact of this service on HWC experiences and wellbeing is required.
Biography:
MANAGING SYMPTOMATIC HEALTHCARE WORKERS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AT A LARGE TERTIARY HEALTHCARE FACILITY IN MELBOURNE: CASE STUDY AND ROLE OF A DEDICATED CASE MANAGEMENT TEAM