1
|
Duverger C, Monteil C, Souyri V, Fournier S. Factors associated with extent of COVID-19 outbreaks: A prospective study in a large hospital network. Am J Infect Control 2024; 52:696-700. [PMID: 38224818 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2024.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has generated numerous hospital outbreaks. This study aimed to identify factors related to the extent of nosocomial COVID-19 outbreaks in the largest French public health institution. METHODS An observational study was conducted from July 2020 to September 2021. Outbreaks were defined as at least 2 cases, patients and/or health care workers (HCWs), linked by time and geographic location. Logistic regression was performed to identify risk factors for large outbreaks among nine variables: variant, medical ward, COVID-19 vaccination rate and incidence among HCWs and Paris population, number of weekly COVID-19 tests among HCWs and the positivity rate, epidemic waves. RESULTS Within 14 months, 799 outbreaks were identified: 450 small ones (≤6 cases) and 349 large ones (≥7 cases), involving 3,260 patients and 3,850 HCWs. In univariate analysis, large outbreaks were positively correlated to geriatrics wards, COVID-19 incidence, and rate of weekly positive tests among HCWs; and negatively correlated to intensive care units, variant Delta, fourth wave, vaccination rates of the Paris region's population and that of the HCWs. In multivariate analysis, factors that remained significant were the type of medical ward and the vaccination rate among HCWs. CONCLUSIONS Intensive care unit and high vaccination rates among HCWs were associated with a lower risk of large COVID-19 outbreaks, as opposed to geriatric wards, which are associated with a higher risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clarisse Duverger
- Central Infection Prevention and Control Team, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.
| | - Catherine Monteil
- Central Infection Prevention and Control Team, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Valérie Souyri
- Central Infection Prevention and Control Team, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Sandra Fournier
- Central Infection Prevention and Control Team, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Collingridge Moore D, Garner A, Cotterell N, Harding AJE, Preston N. Long term care facilities in England during the COVID-19 pandemic-a scoping review of guidelines, policy and recommendations. BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:394. [PMID: 38702669 PMCID: PMC11069159 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-04867-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The disproportionate effect of COVID-19 on long term care facility (LTCF) residents has highlighted the need for clear, consistent guidance on the management of pandemics in such settings. As research exploring the experiences of LTCFs during the pandemic and the implications of mass hospital discharge, restricting staff movement, and limiting visitation from relatives are emerging, an in-depth review of policies, guidance and recommendations issued during this time could facilitate wider understanding in this area. AIMS To identify policies, guidance, and recommendations related to LTCF staff and residents, in England issued by the government during the COVID-19 pandemic, developing a timeline of key events and synthesizing the policy aims, recommendations, implementation and intended outcomes. METHOD A scoping review of publicly available policy documents, guidance, and recommendations related to COVID-19 in LTCFs in England, identified using systematic searches of UK government websites. The main aims, recommendations, implementation and intended outcomes reported in included documents were extracted. Data was analysed using thematic synthesis following a three-stage approach: coding the text, grouping codes into descriptive themes, and development of analytical themes. RESULTS Thirty-three key policy documents were included in the review. Six areas of recommendations were identified: infection prevention and control, hospital discharge, testing and vaccination, staffing, visitation and continuing routine care. Seven areas of implementation were identified: funding, collaborative working, monitoring and data collection, reducing workload, decision making and leadership, training and technology, and communication. DISCUSSION LTCFs remain complex settings, and it is imperative that lessons are learned from the experiences during COVID-19 to ensure that future pandemics are managed appropriately. This review has synthesized the policies issued during this time, however, the extent to which such guidance was communicated to LTCFs, and subsequently implemented, in addition to being effective, requires further research. In particular, understanding the secondary effects of such policies and how they can be introduced within the existing challenges inherent to adult social care, need addressing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alex Garner
- Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | | | | | - Nancy Preston
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Liljas AEM, Morath LP, Burström B, Schön P, Agerholm J. The impact of facility and staff characteristics on infection control of COVID-19: Perceptions of elder care home managers in Stockholm, Sweden. Nurs Open 2024; 11:e2169. [PMID: 38783555 PMCID: PMC11116467 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.2169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM To examine the perceptions of managers of elder care homes on the impact of facility and staff characteristics on infection control of COVID-19. DESIGN Case study. METHODS Six purposively sampled care home managers in the city of Stockholm were interviewed. Through content analysis, three categories and nine subcategories were identified. RESULTS According to the interviewed care home managers, a home-like environment that allows for isolation of residents and possibilities for staff to get changed and store personal protective equipment outside each resident's room was considered ideal. Experienced employees were reported as invaluable when facing an infectious outbreak. A mix of permanent and temporary staff was considered essential although some thought that temporary staff who work in multiple care homes might negatively influence the spread of infection. Language barriers among staff were considered an obstacle when trying to disseminate information.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ann E. M. Liljas
- Department of Global Public HealthKarolinska InstitutetSolnaSweden
| | - Lenke P. Morath
- Department of Global Public HealthKarolinska InstitutetSolnaSweden
| | - Bo Burström
- Department of Global Public HealthKarolinska InstitutetSolnaSweden
| | - Pär Schön
- Department of Global Public HealthKarolinska InstitutetSolnaSweden
| | - Janne Agerholm
- Department of Global Public HealthKarolinska InstitutetSolnaSweden
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Leis JA, Chan CK, Tan C, Callahan J, Serapion V, Pascual B, Lee W, O'Brien J, Thomas NR, Candon H, Crittenden M, Kiss A, Chan AK, Ofner M, Powis JE. Predictors of SARS-CoV-2 transmission in congregate living settings: a multicenter prospective study. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2024:1-6. [PMID: 38562085 DOI: 10.1017/ice.2024.50] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older adults residing in congregate living settings (CLS) such as nursing homes and independent living facilities remain at increased risk of morbidity and mortality from coronavirus disease 2019. We performed a prospective multicenter study of consecutive severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) exposures to identify predictors of transmission in this setting. METHODS Consecutive resident SARS-CoV-2 exposures across 17 CLS were prospectively characterized from 1 September 2022 to 1 March 2023, including factors related to environment, source, and exposed resident. Room size, humidity, and ventilation were measured in locations where exposures occurred. Predictors were incorporated in a generalized estimating equation model adjusting for the correlation within CLS. RESULTS Among 670 consecutive exposures to SARS-CoV-2 across 17 CLS, transmission occurred among 328 (49.0%). Increased risk was associated with nursing homes (odds ratio (OR) = 90.8; 95% CI, 7.8-1047.4), Jack and Jill rooms (OR = 2.2; 95% CI, 1.3-3.6), from source who was pre-symptomatic (OR = 11.2; 95% CI, 4.1-30.9), symptomatic (OR = 6.5; 95% CI, 1.4-29.9), or rapid antigen test positive (OR = 35.6; 95% CI, 5.6-225.6), and in the presence of secondary exposure (OR = 6.3; 95% CI, 1.6-24.0). Exposure in dining room was associated with reduced risk (OR = 0.02; 95% CI, 0.005-0.08) as was medium room size (OR = 0.3; 95% CI, 0.2-0.6). Recent vaccination of exposed resident (OR = 0.5; 95% CI, 0.3-1.0) and increased ventilation of room (OR = 0.9; 95% CI, 0.8-1.0) were marginally associated with reduced risk. CONCLUSION Prospective assessment of SARS-CoV-2 exposures in CLS suggests that source characteristics and location of exposure are most predictive of resident transmission. These findings can inform risk assessment and further opportunities to prevent transmission in CLS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jerome A Leis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Sunnybrook Research Institute and Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Centre for Quality Improvement and Patient Safety, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Charlie Tan
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Wayne Lee
- Michael Garron Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Alex Kiss
- Sunnybrook Research Institute and Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Adrienne K Chan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Sunnybrook Research Institute and Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Jeff E Powis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Centre for Quality Improvement and Patient Safety, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Michael Garron Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Burton JK, McMinn M, Vaughan JE, Nightingale G, Fleuriot J, Guthrie B. Analysis of the impact of COVID-19 on Scotland's care-homes from March 2020 to October 2021: national linked data cohort analysis. Age Ageing 2024; 53:afae015. [PMID: 38342752 PMCID: PMC10859243 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afae015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on long-term care residents remains of wide interest, but most analyses focus on the initial wave of infections. OBJECTIVE To examine change over time in: (i) The size, duration, classification and pattern of care-home outbreaks of COVID-19 and associated mortality and (ii) characteristics associated with an outbreak. DESIGN Retrospective observational cohort study using routinely-collected data. SETTING All adult care-homes in Scotland (1,092 homes, 41,299 places). METHODS Analysis was undertaken at care-home level, over three periods. Period (P)1 01/03/2020-31/08/2020; P2 01/09/2020-31/05/2021 and P3 01/06/2021-31/10/2021. Outcomes were the presence and characteristics of outbreaks and mortality within the care-home. Cluster analysis was used to compare the pattern of outbreaks. Logistic regression examined care-home characteristics associated with outbreaks. RESULTS In total 296 (27.1%) care-homes had one outbreak, 220 (20.1%) had two, 91 (8.3%) had three, and 68 (6.2%) had four or more. There were 1,313 outbreaks involving residents: 431 outbreaks in P1, 559 in P2 and 323 in P3. The COVID-19 mortality rate per 1,000 beds fell from 45.8 in P1, to 29.3 in P2, and 3.5 in P3. Larger care-homes were much more likely to have an outbreak, but associations between size and outbreaks were weaker in later periods. CONCLUSIONS COVID-19 mitigation measures appear to have been beneficial, although the impact on residents remained severe until early 2021. Care-home residents, staff, relatives and providers are critical groups for consideration and involvement in future pandemic planning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Kirsty Burton
- Academic Geriatric Medicine, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, GlasgowG31 2ER, UK
| | - Megan McMinn
- Public Health Scotland, Glasgow G2 6QE, UK
- Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9AG, UK
| | - James E Vaughan
- School of Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9AB, UK
| | - Glenna Nightingale
- Nursing Studies, School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9AB, UK
| | - Jacques Fleuriot
- Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9AG, UK
- Advanced Care Research Centre, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9AG, UK
| | - Bruce Guthrie
- Advanced Care Research Centre, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9AG, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Oldenburger D, Baumann A, Crea-Arsenio M, Deber R, Baba V. COVID-19 in Long-Term Care: A Two-Part Commentary. Prehosp Disaster Med 2024; 39:111-115. [PMID: 38053406 DOI: 10.1017/s1049023x23006611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Raisa Deber
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Alavinejad M, Tosato M, Bragazzi NL, McCarthy Z, Wu J, Bourouiba L. Markers of community outbreak and facility type for mitigation of COVID-19 in long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada: Insights and implications from a time-series analysis. Ann Epidemiol 2024; 90:9-20. [PMID: 37690739 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2023.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The resident deaths among Long Term Care Home (LTCH) accounted for more than 65% of total deaths in the province of Ontario, Canada, during March 29 to June 3, 2020, yet not all LTCHs were severely affected. METHODS We carried out a retrospective cohort study, with case control for questions for which data allowed, with LTCH COVID-19 databases obtained from Ontario's Ministry of Long Term Care. We performed a combined temporal and spatial data analysis of COVID-19 cases and deaths among LTCH residents, identified trends, contributing factors, and early markers of LTCH outbreak severity. RESULTS Our analysis shows that for-profit LTCHs had higher death-to-bed ratio, also with an average rate of increase of death-to-bed ratio higher for for-profit homes than other types of management. We find from uni- and multi-variable analyses (linear and nonlinear) that staff infection has the strongest association with death-to-bed ratio from among the descriptor variables considered, reflecting the risk of the disease in the health region/community. We also identify a delay of up to 8 days between the trends in fatalities among individuals outside LTCHs and that of LTCH residents. We did find an association between policy change to single LTCH/staff and reduction in weekly LTCH resident death, albeit with an expected time delay of about 7-10 days. CONCLUSIONS The association between the risk of COVID-19 in the health region and the deaths among LTCH residents, and the delay between fatality among individuals residing outside and inside LTCHs suggests that fatality in a health region could be a predictor of outbreak in LTCHs within the same health region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Alavinejad
- Mathematical Modelling of COVID-19 Task Force, Fields Laboratory of Mathematics for Public Health, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - M Tosato
- Mathematical Modelling of COVID-19 Task Force, Fields Laboratory of Mathematics for Public Health, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - N L Bragazzi
- Mathematical Modelling of COVID-19 Task Force, Fields Laboratory of Mathematics for Public Health, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Z McCarthy
- Mathematical Modelling of COVID-19 Task Force, Fields Laboratory of Mathematics for Public Health, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - J Wu
- Mathematical Modelling of COVID-19 Task Force, Fields Laboratory of Mathematics for Public Health, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - L Bourouiba
- Mathematical Modelling of COVID-19 Task Force, Fields Laboratory of Mathematics for Public Health, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; The Fluid Dynamics of Disease Transmission Laboratory, Massachusetts In stitute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Evers J, Geraedts M. Impact of nursing home characteristics on COVID-19 infections among residents and staff. Am J Infect Control 2024; 52:15-20. [PMID: 37591313 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2023.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Excess mortality occurred in nursing homes during the SARS-CoV pandemic. This study aimed to identify risk factors for COVID-19 infection and mortality in nursing home residents and staff in Hesse, Germany. METHODS A retrospective cohort study of 687 nursing homes was performed. We used t tests and logistic regressions to quantify the role of nursing homes' size, location, staff qualification, and room occupancy as potential risk factors. RESULTS The bivariate statistics show that a higher proportion of infected staff and for-profit operations were associated with an increase in infections among residents and staff, while more single rooms and registered nurses showed protective effects. Our model calculations also show that the presence of a higher ratio of registered nurses was a significant protective factor against resident infection (odds ratios [OR]: 0.969, P = .002), resident mortality (OR: 0.973, P = .006), and safeguarded staff (OR: 0.979, P = .034). In contrast, more single rooms (OR: 0.993, P = .029) were protective for residents, while increased risk factors included more beds (OR: 1.006, P = .006 for residents' infections, OR: 1.008, P < .001 for mortality) and infected staff (OR: 2.363, P < .001 for residents' infections). For staff, medium population density (OR: 2.322, P = .016) and infected residents (OR: 1.308, P < .001) were associated with elevated risk. CONCLUSIONS Preventing infection outbreaks among residents and staff is crucial to reduce mortality. Strategies include increasing single-occupancy rooms, improving staff qualifications, and targeting facilities with lower registered nurse ratios and single-occupancy rooms for inspection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janis Evers
- Institute for Health Services Research and Clinical Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Philipps University of Marburg, Germany.
| | - Max Geraedts
- Institute for Health Services Research and Clinical Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Philipps University of Marburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Dash D, Mowbray FI, Poss JW, Aryal K, Stall NM, Hirdes JP, Hillmer MP, Heckman GA, Bowdish DME, Costa AP, Jones A. The association between frailty, long-term care home characteristics and COVID-19 mortality before and after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination: a retrospective cohort study. Age Ageing 2023; 52:afad229. [PMID: 38163287 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afad229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relative contributions of long-term care (LTC) resident frailty and home-level characteristics on COVID-19 mortality has not been well studied. We examined the association between resident frailty and home-level characteristics with 30-day COVID-19 mortality before and after the availability of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in LTC. METHODS We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study of LTC residents with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection in Ontario, Canada. We used multi-level multivariable logistic regression to examine associations between 30-day COVID-19 mortality, the Hubbard Frailty Index (FI), and resident and home-level characteristics. We compared explanatory models before and after vaccine availability. RESULTS There were 11,179 and 3,655 COVID-19 cases in the pre- and post-vaccine period, respectively. The 30-day COVID-19 mortality was 25.9 and 20.0% during the same periods. The median odds ratios for 30-day COVID-19 mortality between LTC homes were 1.50 (95% credible interval [CrI]: 1.41-1.65) and 1.62 (95% CrI: 1.46-1.96), respectively. In the pre-vaccine period, 30-day COVID-19 mortality was higher for males and those of greater age. For every 0.1 increase in the Hubbard FI, the odds of death were 1.49 (95% CI: 1.42-1.56) times higher. The association between frailty and mortality remained consistent in the post-vaccine period, but sex and age were partly attenuated. Despite the substantial home-level variation, no home-level characteristic examined was significantly associated with 30-day COVID-19 mortality during either period. INTERPRETATION Frailty is consistently associated with COVID-19 mortality before and after the availability of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Home-level characteristics previously attributed to COVID-19 outcomes do not explain significant home-to-home variation in COVID-19 mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Darly Dash
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Fabrice I Mowbray
- College of Nursing, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Jeffrey W Poss
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Komal Aryal
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Nathan M Stall
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - John P Hirdes
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Michael P Hillmer
- Institute for Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - George A Heckman
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Dawn M E Bowdish
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, St. Joseph's Health Care Hamilton, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Andrew P Costa
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Aaron Jones
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wu SA, Morrison-Koechl JM, McAiney C, Middleton L, Lengyel C, Slaughter S, Carrier N, Yoon MN, Keller HH. Multi-Level Factors Associated with Relationship-Centred and Task-Focused Mealtime Practices in Long-Term Care: A Secondary Data Analysis of the Making the Most of Mealtimes Study. Can J Aging 2023; 42:696-709. [PMID: 37278323 DOI: 10.1017/s0714980823000156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mealtimes in long-term care (LTC) can reinforce relationships between staff and residents through relationship-centred care (RCC) practices; however, meals are often task-focused (TF). This cross-sectional study explores multi-level contextual factors that contribute to RCC and TF mealtime practices. Secondary data from residents in 32 Canadian LTC homes were analyzed (n = 634; mean age 86.7 ± 7.8; 31.1% male). Data included resident health record review, standardized mealtime observation tools, and valid questionnaires. A higher average number of RCC (9.6 ± 1.4) than TF (5.6 ± 2.1) practices per meal were observed. Multi-level regression revealed that a significant proportion of variation in the RCC and TF scores was explained at the resident- (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC]RCC = 0.736; ICCTF = 0.482), dining room- (ICCRCC = 0.210; ICCTF = 0.162), and home- (ICCRCC = 0.054; ICCTF = 0.356) levels. For-profit status and home size modified the associations between functional dependency and practices. Addressing multi-level factors can reinforce RCC practices and reduce TF practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Wu
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Carrie McAiney
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Laura Middleton
- Kinesiology and Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterlo, ON, Canada
| | - Christina Lengyel
- Department of Food and Human Nutrition Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Susan Slaughter
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Natalie Carrier
- École des sciences des aliments, de nutrition et d'études familiales, Université de Moncton, Moncton, NB, Canada
| | - Minn-Nyoung Yoon
- Department of Dentistry & Dental Hygiene, University of Alberta, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Heather H Keller
- Kinesiology and Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterlo, ON, Canada
- Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Hafid S, Kirkwood D, Elston D, Perez R, Jones A, Costa A, Oliver J, Chidwick P, Nitti T, Siu HYH. Evaluating the Association between the Implementation of the PoET Southwest Spread Project and Reductions in Acute Care Transfers from Long-Term Care: A Quasi-Experimental Matched Cohort Study Using Population-Level Health Administrative Data. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2023; 24:1888-1897. [PMID: 37777186 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2023.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To measure changes in resident-level acute care transfer rates after the PoET Southwest Spread Project (PSSP), and to identify patient and long-term care (LTC) home characteristics associated with acute care transfers after program launch. DESIGN Quasi-experimental matched (1:1 ratio) cohort study design using linked population-based health administrative data. SETTING Sixty publicly funded LTC homes (PSSP = 30; control = 30) in Ontario, Canada, from November 2019 to December 2021. METHODS We matched 30 PSSP homes to 30 control homes with similar characteristics and described incidence rates for resident-level acute care transfers during the 7-month post-implementation period. We used generalized linear mixed models to evaluate the association between PSSP implementation and acute care transfers during the post-implementation period. We adjusted resident-level characteristics (ie, age, sex, comorbidity status) and home-level characteristics (ie, rurality status, profit model, COVID-19 impact). We identified a decedent sub-cohort to measure transfer patterns during the last 2 months of life. RESULTS A matched cohort of 8894 residents (PSSP = 4103; control = 4791) was captured. Incidence rates of transfers increased during the post-implementation period for both PSSP (78.8 to 80.9 transfers per 1000 person-months) and control residents (66.9 to 67.9 transfers per 1000 person-months). After adjusting for covariates of interest, PSSP exposure was associated with a reduction in acute care transfers during the post-implementation period after adjusting for covariates (incidence rate ratio, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.62-0.87; P = .0002). Older age and select health regions were associated with reduced transfers, whereas higher comorbidity status and higher COVID-19 outbreak days were associated with increases. Similar patterns persisted for transfers during the last 2 months of life. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS This study systematically evaluated the impact of an ethics-based health care intervention in LTC using health care utilization databases. PoET implementation is associated with reduced acute care transfer rates, especially in the last 2 months of life in LTC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuaib Hafid
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Dawn Elston
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Aaron Jones
- ICES McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew Costa
- ICES McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jill Oliver
- William Osler Health System, Brampton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Theresa Nitti
- William Osler Health System, Brampton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Henry Yu-Hin Siu
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Hemphill J, MacGregor L, Austen A, Calay R, Kikuta SC, Dockery J, Sheppard CL, Hitzig SL. The process of implementing culture change across a city-operated long-term care home and the importance of stakeholder engagement. Healthc Manage Forum 2023; 36:414-419. [PMID: 37492023 DOI: 10.1177/08404704231188961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
This article describes the Quality Improvement (QI) initiative of a culture change model, CareTO. CareTO is a made-in-Toronto, resident-driven, person-centred approach to care that was implemented across all units of a City of Toronto-operated Long-Term Care (LTC) home during the COVID-19 pandemic. The City of Toronto's Seniors Services and Long-Term Care (SSLTC) Division partnered with an external QI team to support the implementation of CareTO at the pilot site. This team employed a multi-method approach (fact-gathering conversations, stakeholder survey, and meeting) to understand how residents, families, and professionals defined CareTO, and identified implementation facilitators, barriers, and priorities. Emerging findings were shared with SSLTC to inform the delivery of CareTO in real time. Results suggested that stakeholder engagement, and collaborations between external partners and municipal governments are an effective means of mobilizing implementation initiatives by encouraging reflection, developing a shared understanding, and refining objectives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Hemphill
- City of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Sander L Hitzig
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Garnett A, Yurkiv H, Booth R, Connelly D, Donelle L. Web-Based Presence for Social Connectedness in Long-Term Care: Protocol for a Qualitative Multimethods Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e50137. [PMID: 37889518 PMCID: PMC10638636 DOI: 10.2196/50137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic and resultant restrictions on social gatherings significantly impacted many peoples' sense of social connectedness, defined as an individual's subjective sense of having close relationships with others. Older adults living in long-term care homes (LTCHs) experienced extreme restrictions on social gatherings, which negatively impacted their physical and mental health as well as the health and well-being of their family caregivers. Their experiences highlighted the need to reconceptualize social connectedness. In particular, the pandemic highlighted the need to explore novel ways to attain fulfilling relationships with others in the absence of physical gatherings such as through the use of a hybridized system of web-based and in-person presence. OBJECTIVE Given the potential benefits and challenges of web-based presence technology within LTCHs, the proposed research objectives are to (1) explore experiences regarding the use of web-based presence technology (WPT) in support of social connectedness between older adults in LTCHs and their family members, and (2) identify the contextual factors that must be addressed for successful WPT implementation within LTCHs. METHODS This study will take place in south western Ontario, Canada, and be guided by a qualitative multimethod research design conducted in three stages: (1) qualitive description with in-depth qualitative interviews guided by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and analyzed using content analysis; (2) qualitative description and document analysis methodologies, informed by content and thematic analysis methods; and (3) explicit between-methods triangulation of study findings from stages 1 and 2, interpretation of findings and development of a guiding framework for technology implementation within LTCHs. Using a purposeful, maximum variation sampling approach, stage 1 will involve recruiting approximately 45 participants comprising a range of older adults, family members (30 participants) and staff (15 participants) within several LTCH settings. In stage 2, theoretical sampling will be used to recruit key LTCH stakeholders (directors, administrators, and IT support). In stage 3, the findings from stages 1 and 2 will be triangulated and interpreted to develop a working framework for WPT usage within LTCHs. RESULTS Data collection will begin in fall 2023. The findings emerging from this study will provide insights and understanding about how the factors, barriers, and facilitators to embedding and spreading WPT in LTCHs may benefit or negatively impact older adults in LTCHs, family caregivers, and staff and administrators of LTCHs. CONCLUSIONS The results of this research study will provide a greater understanding of potential approaches that could be used to successfully integrate WPTs in LTCHs. Additionally, benefits as well as challenges for older adults in LTCHs, family caregivers, and staff and administrators of LTCHs will be identified. These findings will help increase knowledge and understanding of how WPT may be used to support social connectedness between older adults in LTCHs and their family members. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/50137.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Garnett
- Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Halyna Yurkiv
- Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Richard Booth
- Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Denise Connelly
- School of Physical Therapy, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Lorie Donelle
- Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Shahidi F, Rennert-May E, D'Souza AG, Crocker A, Faris P, Leal J. Machine learning risk estimation and prediction of death in continuing care facilities using administrative data. Sci Rep 2023; 13:17708. [PMID: 37853045 PMCID: PMC10584843 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43943-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to identify the factors that were associated with mortality among continuing care residents in Alberta, during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We achieved this by leveraging and linking various administrative datasets together. Then, we examined pre-processing methods in terms of prediction performance. Finally, we developed several machine learning models and compared the results of these models in terms of performance. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of all continuing care residents in Alberta, Canada, from March 1, 2020, to March 31, 2021. We used a univariable and a multivariable logistic regression (LR) model to identify predictive factors of 60-day all-cause mortality by estimating odds ratios (ORs) with a 95% confidence interval. To determine the best sensitivity-specificity cut-off point, the Youden index was employed. We developed several machine learning models to determine the best model regarding performance. In this cohort study, increased age, male sex, symptoms, previous admissions, and some specific comorbidities were associated with increased mortality. Machine learning and pre-processing approaches offer a potentially valuable method for improving risk prediction for mortality, but more work is needed to show improvement beyond standard risk factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Faezehsadat Shahidi
- Electrical and Software Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Elissa Rennert-May
- Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- O'Brien Institute for Public Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Infectious Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- AMR - One Health Consortium, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Adam G D'Souza
- Centre for Health Informatics, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Analytics, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Alysha Crocker
- Clinical Information Systems, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Peter Faris
- Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Analytics, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jenine Leal
- Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- O'Brien Institute for Public Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Infectious Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- AMR - One Health Consortium, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- Infection Prevention and Control, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Duncombe TR, Garrod M, Wang X, Ng J, Lee E, Short K, Tan K. Risk factors associated with severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission, outbreak duration, and mortality in acute-care settings. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2023; 44:1643-1649. [PMID: 36815248 PMCID: PMC10587374 DOI: 10.1017/ice.2023.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in acute-care settings affects patients, healthcare workers, and the healthcare system. We conducted an analysis of risk factors associated with outbreak severity to inform prevention strategies. METHODS This cross-sectional analysis of COVID-19 outbreaks was conducted at Fraser Health acute-care sites between March 2020 and March 2021. Outbreak severity measures included COVID-19 attack rate, outbreak duration, and 30-day case mortality. Generalized linear models with generalized estimating equations were used for all outcome measures. A P value of 0.05 indicated statistical significance. Analyses were performed using SAS version 3.8 software, R version 4.1.0 software, and Stata version 16.0 software. RESULTS Between March 2020 and March 2021, 54 COVID-19 outbreaks were declared in Fraser Health acute-care sites. Overall, a 10% increase in the hand hygiene rate during the outbreak resulted in an 18% decrease in the attack rate (P < .01), 1 fewer death (P = .03), and shorter outbreaks (P < .01). A 10-year increase in unit age was associated with 2.2 additional days of outbreak (P < 0.01) and increases in the attack rate (P < .05) and the number of deaths (P < .01). DISCUSSION We observed an inverse relationship between increased hand hygiene compliance during outbreaks and all 3 severity measures. Increased unit age was also associated with increases in each of the severity measures. CONCLUSION This study highlights the importance of hand hygiene practices during an outbreak and the difficulties faced by older facilities, many of which have infrastructural challenges. The latter reinforces the need to incorporate infection control standards into healthcare planning and construction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamara R. Duncombe
- Infection Prevention and Control, Fraser Health, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Matthew Garrod
- Infection Prevention and Control, Fraser Health, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Xuetao Wang
- Infection Prevention and Control, Fraser Health, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Joyce Ng
- Infection Prevention and Control, Fraser Health, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Eunsun Lee
- Infection Prevention and Control, Fraser Health, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Katy Short
- Infection Prevention and Control, Fraser Health, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kennard Tan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Fraser Health, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Stubbs A, Dawson E, Campbell E, Van Buskirk J, Johnson G, Spalding N, Cullen J, Chee K, McLeod J, Knibbs LD, O'Callaghan J, Jones C, Maduka C, Fleming P, Haupt R, Penman A. Factors impacting resident outcomes from COVID-19 outbreaks in Residential Aged Care Facilities in Sydney Local Health District: testing an infection prevention and control scoring system. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1763. [PMID: 37697365 PMCID: PMC10494338 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16634-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 outbreaks have disproportionately affected Residential Aged Care Facilities (RACFs) around the world, with devastating impacts for residents and their families. Many factors such as community prevalence, facility layout, and infection control practices have been linked to resident outcomes. At present, there are no scoring systems designed to quantify these factors and assess their level of association with resident attack rates and mortality rates. METHODS We constructed a novel Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) scoring system to quantify facility layout, ability to cohort residents, and IPC practices in RACFs. We conducted a retrospective observational cohort study of COVID-19 outbreaks, applying our IPC scoring system to all COVID-19 outbreaks occurring in RACFs in Sydney Local Health District during the Delta and Omicron waves of the COVID-19 pandemic in New South Wales, Australia. RESULTS Twenty-six COVID-19 outbreaks in 23 facilities in the Delta wave, and 84 outbreaks in 53 facilities in the Omicron wave were included in the study. A linear Generalised Estimating Equation model was fitted to the Omicron data. Higher IPC scores were associated with higher attack rates and mortality rates. Facilities with IPC scores greater than 75.0% had attack rates 19.6% higher [95% CI: 6.4%-32.8%] and mortality rates 1.7% higher [95% CI: 0.6%-2.7%] than facilities with an IPC score of less than 60.0%. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study suggest the utility of the IPC scoring system for identifying facilities at greater risk of adverse outcomes from COVID-19 outbreaks. While further validation and replication of accuracy is required, the IPC scoring system could be used and adapted to improve planning, policy, and resource allocation for future outbreaks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alison Stubbs
- Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Dawson
- Sydney Local Health District, Infection Prevention and Control, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Elise Campbell
- Sydney Local Health District Residential Aged Care Facility Outreach Team, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Joseph Van Buskirk
- Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - George Johnson
- Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Natasha Spalding
- Sydney Local Health District Residential Aged Care Facility Outreach Team, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - John Cullen
- Sydney Local Health District Residential Aged Care Facility Outreach Team, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Karen Chee
- Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jodi McLeod
- Sydney Local Health District Residential Aged Care Facility Outreach Team, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Luke D Knibbs
- Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jodie O'Callaghan
- Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Christian Jones
- Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Chinonye Maduka
- Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Patricia Fleming
- Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Reuben Haupt
- Sydney Local Health District Executive, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Andrew Penman
- Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Bakare RA, Mulcahy JF, Pullen MF, Demmer RT, Cox SL, Thurn JA, Galdys AL. Patient-facing job role is associated with SARS-CoV-2 positivity among healthcare workers in long term care facilities in Minnesota, August-December, 2020. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2023; 44:1467-1471. [PMID: 36912330 PMCID: PMC10507513 DOI: 10.1017/ice.2022.289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Healthcare workers (HCWs) in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) are disproportionately affected by severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). To characterize factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 positivity among LTCF HCWs, we performed a retrospective cohort study among HCWs in 32 LTCFs in the Minneapolis-St Paul region. METHODS We analyzed the outcome of SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positivity among LTCF HCWs during weeks 34-52 of 2020. LTCF and HCW-level characteristics, including facility size, facility risk score for resident-HCW contact, and resident-facing job role, were modeled in univariable and multivariable generalized linear regressions to determine their association with SARS-CoV-2 positivity. RESULTS Between weeks 34 and 52, 440 (20.7%) of 2,130 unique HCWs tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 at least once. In the univariable model, non-resident-facing HCWs had lower odds of infection (odds ratio [OR], 0.50; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.36-0.70). In the multivariable model, the odds remained lower for non-resident-facing HCW (OR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.36-0.71), and those in medium- versus low-risk facilities experienced higher odds of testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 (OR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.08-2.02). CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that COVID-19 cases are related to contact between HCW and residents in LTCFs. This association should be considered when formulating infection prevention and control policies to mitigate the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in LTCFs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - John F. Mulcahy
- University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | | | - Ryan T. Demmer
- University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Sara L. Cox
- M Health Fairview Health System, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | | | - Alison L. Galdys
- University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
McGarry BE, Gandhi AD, Barnett ML. Covid-19 Surveillance Testing in Nursing Homes. Reply. N Engl J Med 2023; 388:2207-2208. [PMID: 37285544 DOI: 10.1056/nejmc2304781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
|
19
|
Turcotte LA, McArthur C, Poss JW, Heckman G, Mitchell L, Morris J, Foebel AD, Hirdes JP. Long-Term Care Resident Health and Quality of Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Synthesis Analysis of Canadian Institute for Health Information Data Tables. Health Serv Insights 2023; 16:11786329231174745. [PMID: 37220547 PMCID: PMC10196682 DOI: 10.1177/11786329231174745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Long-term care (LTC) homes ("nursing homes") were challenged during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. The objective of this study was to measure the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on resident admission and discharge rates, resident health attributes, treatments, and quality of care. Design Synthesis analysis of "Quick Stats" standardized data table reports published yearly by the Canadian Institute for Health Information. These reports are a pan-Canadian scorecard of LTC services rendered, resident health characteristics, and quality indicator performance. Setting and participants LTC home residents in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Ontario, Canada that were assessed with the interRAI Minimum Data Set 2.0 comprehensive health assessment in fiscal years 2018/2019, 2019/2020 (pre-pandemic period), and 2020/2021 (pandemic period). Methods Risk ratio statistics were calculated to compare admission and discharge rates, validated interRAI clinical summary scale scores, medication, therapy and treatment provision, and seventeen risk-adjusted quality indicator rates from the pandemic period relative to prior fiscal years. Results Risk of dying in the LTC home was greater in all provinces (risk ratio [RR] range 1.06-1.18) during the pandemic. Quality of care worsened substantially on 6 of 17 quality indicators in British Columbia and Ontario, and 2 quality indicators in Manitoba and Alberta. The only quality indicator where performance worsened during the pandemic in all provinces was the percentage of residents that received antipsychotic medications without a diagnosis of psychosis (RR range 1.01-1.09). Conclusions and implications The COVID-19 pandemic has unveiled numerous areas to strengthen LTC and ensure that resident's physical, social, and psychological needs are addressed during public health emergencies. Except an increase in potentially inappropriate antipsychotic use, this provincial-level analysis indicates that most aspects of resident care were maintained during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Caitlin McArthur
- School of Physiotherapy, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Jeff W Poss
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - George Heckman
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Lori Mitchell
- Home Care Program, Winnipeg Regional Health Authority, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | | | - Andrea D Foebel
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - John P Hirdes
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Tandan M, Kaup ML, Cornelison LJ, Zimmerman S. The relationship between person-centered care in nursing homes and COVID-19 infection, hospitalization, and mortality rates. Geriatr Nurs 2023; 51:253-257. [PMID: 37028151 PMCID: PMC10075075 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2023.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This cohort study compared rates of COVID-19 infections, admissions/readmissions, and mortality among a statewide person-centered model known as PEAK and non-PEAK NHs. METHODS Rates per 1000 resident days were derived for COVID-19 cases and admissions/readmissions, and per 100 positive cases for mortality. A log-rank test compared rates between PEAK (n = 109) and non-PEAK NHs (n = 112). RESULTS Rates of COVID-19 cases, admission, and mortality were higher in non-PEAK compared to PEAK NHs. The median rates for all indicators had a zero value for all NHs, but in NHs above 90th percentiles, the non-PEAK case rate was 3.9 times more and the admission/readmission rate was 2.5 times more. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS COVID-19 case, and mortality rates were lower in PEAK than non-PEAK NHs. Although PEAK and non-PEAK NHs may differ in other ways as well, person-centered care may be advantageous to promote infection control and improve outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meera Tandan
- Cecil G Sheps Center for Health Service Research, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Migette L Kaup
- Department of Interior Design & Fashion Studies, College of Health and Human Sciences, Kansas State University, KS, USA.
| | - Laci J Cornelison
- Center on Aging, College of Health and Human Sciences, Kansas State University, KS, USA
| | - Sheryl Zimmerman
- Cecil G Sheps Center for Health Service Research, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; School of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Sun Z, Chai L, Ma R. Long-Term Care Research in the Context of COVID-19 Pandemic: A Bibliometric Analysis. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11091248. [PMID: 37174790 PMCID: PMC10178488 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11091248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the increasing awareness of long-term care (LTC) research after the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic, little attention was given to quantitatively describe the evolution of the research field during this period. A total of 1024 articles retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database were systematically analyzed using CiteSpace visualization software. The overall characteristics analysis showed that, in the context of the pandemic, attention to LTC research increased significantly-over 800 articles were published in the past two years. The USA, Canada, Italy, and England formed the leading LTC research group, which was consistent with the conclusions of existing bibliometric studies on LTC research before the outbreak. A rigorous analysis based on a dual perspective of references and keywords was applied to reveal that, compared with previous studies, in the context of the pandemic, the focus shifted from the mental and physical health status of older adults in need of LTC to the impact of the pandemic on those of older adults in LTC facilities, from the prevention of general epidemics to the prevention and response of significant public health emergencies, from providing and paying for LTC to strategies for LTC facilities to improve the quality of LTC and well-being of their residents during the pandemic. These findings can provide help and reference for academics, civil folks, and LTC practitioners, as well as help with the sustainable development of LTC research in the context of COVID-19 pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Sun
- Department of Law and Political Science, North China Electric Power University, Baoding 071003, China
| | - Lulu Chai
- Department of Law and Political Science, North China Electric Power University, Baoding 071003, China
| | - Ran Ma
- Department of Law and Political Science, North China Electric Power University, Baoding 071003, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Drost A, Alam MI, Boamah S, Kralj B, Costa A, Sweetman A. Multiple jobholding and part-time work among nurses in long-term care homes compared to other healthcare sectors: Evidence from Ontario. Health Policy 2023; 130:104713. [PMID: 36753791 PMCID: PMC9877154 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2023.104713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
About two-thirds of Canadian COVID-19 related deaths occurred in long-term care homes (LTCHs). Multiple jobholding and excessive part-time work among staff have been discussed as vectors of transmission. Using an administrative census of registered nurses (RNs) and registered practical nurses (RPNs) in the Canadian province of Ontario, this paper contrasts the prevalence of multiple jobholding, part-time/casual work, and other job and worker characteristics across health sectors in 2019 and 2020 to establish whether the LTCH sector deviates from the norms in Ontario healthcare. Prior to COVID-19, about 19% of RNs and 21% of RPNs in LTCHs held multiple jobs. For RPNs, this was almost identical to the RPN provincial average, while for RNs this was 2.5 percentage points above the RN provincial average. In 2020, multiple jobholding fell significantly in LTCHs after the province passed a single site order to reduce COVD-19 transmission. Although there are many similarities across sectors, nurses, especially RNs, in LTCHs differ on some dimensions. They are more likely to be internationally educated and, together with nurses in hospitals, those who work part- time/casual are more likely to prefer full-time hours (involuntary part-time/casual). Overall, while multiple jobholding and part-time work among nurses are problematic for infection prevention and control, these employment practices in LTCHs did not substantially deviate from the norms in the rest of healthcare in Ontario.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa Drost
- McMaster University, Department of Economics, 1280 Main Street West, Kenneth Taylor Hall Room 426, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, L8S 4M4.
| | - M Injamam Alam
- University of Victoria, Department of Economics, Business and Economics Building, Room 360, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, V8P 5C2.
| | - Sheila Boamah
- McMaster University, School of Nursing, Health Sciences Centre, 2J20, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, L8S 4K1
| | - Boris Kralj
- McMaster University, Department of Economics, 1280 Main Street West, Kenneth Taylor Hall Room 426, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, L8S 4M4
| | - Andrew Costa
- McMaster University, Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact, McMaster University Medical Centre, 1280 Main Street West, 2C Area, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, L8S 4K1
| | - Arthur Sweetman
- Ontario Research Chair in Health Human Resources, McMaster University, Department of Economics, 1280 Main Street West, Kenneth Taylor Hall Room 426, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, L8S 4M4
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
COVID-19 pandemic in long-term care: An international perspective for policy considerations. Int J Nurs Sci 2023; 10:158-166. [PMID: 37095850 PMCID: PMC10063321 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnss.2023.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper identifies key factors rooted in the systemic failings of the long-term care sector amongst four high income countries during the COVID-19 pandemic. The goal is to offer practice and policy solutions to prevent future tragedies. Based on data from Australia, Canada, Spain and the United States, the findings support evidence-based recommendations at macro, meso and micro levels of practice and policy intervention. Key macro recommendations include improving funding, transparency, accountability and health system integration; and promoting not-for-profit and government-run long-term care facilities. The meso recommendation involves moving from warehouses to “green houses.” The micro recommendations emphasize mandating recommended staffing levels and skill mix; providing infection prevention and control training; establishing well-being and mental health supports for residents and staff; building evidence-based practice cultures; ensuring ongoing education for staff and nursing students; and fully integrating care partners, such as families or friends, into the healthcare team. Enacting these recommendations will improve residents' safety and quality of life; families’ peace of mind; and staff retention and work satisfaction.
Collapse
|
24
|
Leece P, Whelan M, Costa AP, Daneman N, Johnstone J, McGeer A, Rochon P, Schwartz KL, Brown KA. Nursing home crowding and its association with outbreak-associated respiratory infection in Ontario, Canada before the COVID-19 pandemic (2014-19): a retrospective cohort study. THE LANCET. HEALTHY LONGEVITY 2023; 4:e107-e114. [PMID: 36870336 PMCID: PMC9989831 DOI: 10.1016/s2666-7568(23)00018-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic have shown that crowding in nursing homes is associated with high incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infections, but this effect has not been shown for other respiratory pathogens. We aimed to measure the association between crowding in nursing homes and outbreak-associated respiratory infection incidence and related mortality before the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of nursing homes in Ontario, Canada. We identified, characterised, and selected nursing homes through the Ontario Ministry of Long-Term Care datasets. Nursing homes that were not funded by the Ontario Ministry of Long-Term Care and homes that closed before January, 2020 were excluded. Outcomes consisting of respiratory infection outbreaks were obtained from the Integrated Public Health Information System of Ontario. The crowding index equalled the mean number of residents per bedroom and bathroom. The primary outcomes were the incidence of outbreak-associated infections and mortality per 100 nursing home residents per year. We examined the incidence of infections and deaths as a function of the crowding index by use of negative binomial regression with adjustment for three home characteristics (ie, ownership, number of beds, and region) and nine mean resident characteristics (ie, age, female sex, dementia, diabetes, chronic heart failure, renal failure, cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and activities of daily living score). FINDINGS Between Sept 1, 2014, and Aug 31, 2019, 5107 respiratory infection outbreaks in 588 nursing homes were recorded, of which 4921 (96·4%), involving 64 829 cases of respiratory infection and 1969 deaths, were included in this analysis. Nursing homes with a high crowding index had higher incidences of respiratory infection (26·4% vs 13·8%; adjusted rate ratio per one resident per room increase in crowding 1·89 [95% CI 1·64-2·17]) and mortality (0·8% vs 0·4%; 2·34 [1·88-2·92]) than did homes with a low crowding index. INTERPRETATION Respiratory infection and mortality rates were higher in nursing homes with high crowding index than in homes with low crowding index, and the association was consistent across various respiratory pathogens. Decreasing crowding is an important safety target beyond the COVID-19 pandemic to help to promote resident wellbeing and decrease the transmission of prevalent respiratory pathogens. FUNDING None.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Nick Daneman
- Public Health Ontario, Toronto, ON, Canada; Division of Infectious Diseases, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Cox MB, McGregor MJ, Poss J, Harrington C. The association of facility ownership with COVID-19 outbreaks in long-term care homes in British Columbia, Canada: a retrospective cohort study. CMAJ Open 2023; 11:E267-E273. [PMID: 36944427 PMCID: PMC10035665 DOI: 10.9778/cmajo.20220022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long-term care (LTC) in Canada is delivered by a mix of government-, for-profit- and nonprofit-owned facilities that receive public funding to provide care, and were sites of major outbreaks during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. We sought to assess whether facility ownership was associated with COVID-19 outbreaks among LTC facilities in British Columbia, Canada. METHODS We conducted a retrospective observational study in which we linked LTC facility data, collected annually by the Office of the Seniors Advocate BC, with public health data on outbreaks. A facility outbreak was recorded when 1 or more residents tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 between Mar. 1, 2020, and Jan. 31, 2021. We used the Cox proportional hazards method to calculate the adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of the association between risk of COVID-19 outbreak and facility ownership, controlling for community incidence of COVID-19 and other facility characteristics. RESULTS Overall, 94 outbreaks involved residents in 80 of 293 facilities. Compared with health authority-owned facilities, for-profit and nonprofit facilities had higher risks of COVID-19 outbreaks (adjusted HR 1.99, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.12-3.52 and adjusted HR 1.84, 95% CI 1.00-3.36, respectively). The model adjusted for community incidence of infection (adjusted HR 1.12, 95% CI 1.07-1.17), total nursing hours per resident-day (adjusted HR 0.84, 95% CI 0.33-2.14), facility age (adjusted HR 1.01, 95% CI 1.00-1.02), number of facility beds (adjusted HR 1.20, 95% CI 1.12-1.30) and facilities with beds in shared rooms (adjusted HR 1.16, 95% CI 0.73-1.85). INTERPRETATION Findings suggest that ownership of LTC facilities by health authorities in BC offered some protection against COVID-19 outbreaks. Further study is needed to unpack the underlying pathways behind this observed association.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle B Cox
- Department of Family Practice (Cox, McGregor), Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia; Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Evaluation (McGregor), Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC; School of Public Health Sciences (Poss), University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ont.; Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences (Harrington), University of California - San Francisco, San Francisco, Calif
| | - Margaret J McGregor
- Department of Family Practice (Cox, McGregor), Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia; Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Evaluation (McGregor), Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC; School of Public Health Sciences (Poss), University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ont.; Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences (Harrington), University of California - San Francisco, San Francisco, Calif.
| | - Jeffrey Poss
- Department of Family Practice (Cox, McGregor), Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia; Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Evaluation (McGregor), Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC; School of Public Health Sciences (Poss), University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ont.; Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences (Harrington), University of California - San Francisco, San Francisco, Calif
| | - Charlene Harrington
- Department of Family Practice (Cox, McGregor), Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia; Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Evaluation (McGregor), Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC; School of Public Health Sciences (Poss), University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ont.; Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences (Harrington), University of California - San Francisco, San Francisco, Calif
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Said D, Sin MA, Zanuzdana A, Schweickert B, Eckmanns T. [Long-term care facilities-the COVID-19 pandemic as an urgent call: infection prevention, control measures, and factors influencing the health of residents]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2023; 66:248-255. [PMID: 36750471 PMCID: PMC9904872 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-023-03657-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic once again highlighted the vulnerability of residents of long-term care facilities due to their increased risk of a severe or fatal course of COVID-19. To protect the residents in the face of high incidences of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV‑2) in the general population, a number of measures for infection protection were recommended, which led to a decrease of COVID-19 case numbers and deaths in the facilities during the pandemic. However, factors in the facilities that hampered the implementation of these measures and represented a significant impact on the health of the residents also became visible.The challenges concern working conditions (e.g., lack of staff, both in general and with corresponding competencies, and work-related stress), the care of residents (e.g., medical and psychosocial), and structural as well as facility-related factors (e.g., facility size).Approaches to these problems indicate that a successful implementation of infection control measures should be part of a concept for redesigning the work and living conditions of the staff and residents of the facilities. It is important to note that infection control should not be planned exclusively with regard to future pandemics, but is of relevance for health risks that already exist in the facilities, such as healthcare-associated infections, antibiotic resistances, or influenza.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dunja Said
- Fachgebiet 37 - Nosokomiale Infektionen, Surveillance von Antibiotikaresistenz und -verbrauch, Robert Koch-Institut, Seestr. 10, 13353, Berlin, Deutschland.
- Institut für Hygiene und Umweltmedizin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland.
| | - Muna Abu Sin
- Fachgebiet 37 - Nosokomiale Infektionen, Surveillance von Antibiotikaresistenz und -verbrauch, Robert Koch-Institut, Seestr. 10, 13353, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Arina Zanuzdana
- Fachgebiet 37 - Nosokomiale Infektionen, Surveillance von Antibiotikaresistenz und -verbrauch, Robert Koch-Institut, Seestr. 10, 13353, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Birgitta Schweickert
- Fachgebiet 37 - Nosokomiale Infektionen, Surveillance von Antibiotikaresistenz und -verbrauch, Robert Koch-Institut, Seestr. 10, 13353, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Tim Eckmanns
- Fachgebiet 37 - Nosokomiale Infektionen, Surveillance von Antibiotikaresistenz und -verbrauch, Robert Koch-Institut, Seestr. 10, 13353, Berlin, Deutschland
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Fralick M, Nott C, Moggridge J, Castellani L, Raudanskis A, Guttman DS, Hinz A, Thampi N, Wong A, Manuel D, McGeer A, Doukhanine E, Mejbel H, Zanichelli V, Burella M, Donaldson SL, Wang PW, Kassen R, MacFadden DR. Detection of Covid-19 Outbreaks Using Built Environment Testing for SARS-CoV-2. NEJM EVIDENCE 2023; 2:EVIDoa2200203. [PMID: 38320044 DOI: 10.1056/evidoa2200203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Environmental surveillance of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) through wastewater has become a useful tool for population-level surveillance. Built environment sampling may provide a more spatially refined approach for surveillance in congregate living settings. METHODS: We conducted a prospective study in 10 long-term care homes (LTCHs) between September 2021 and November 2022. Floor surfaces were sampled weekly at multiple locations within each building and analyzed for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 using quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. The primary outcome was the presence of a coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) outbreak in the week that floor sampling was performed. RESULTS: Over the 14-month study period, we collected 4895 swabs at 10 LTCHs. During the study period, 23 Covid-19 outbreaks occurred with 119 cumulative weeks under outbreak. During outbreak periods, the proportion of floor swabs that were positive for SARS-CoV-2 was 54.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 52 to 56.6), and during non-outbreak periods it was 22.3% (95% CI, 20.9 to 23.8). Using the proportion of floor swabs positive for SARS-CoV-2 to predict Covid-19 outbreak status in a given week, the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve was 0.84 (95% CI, 0.78 to 0.9). Among 10 LTCHs with an outbreak and swabs performed in the prior week, eight had positive floor swabs exceeding 10% at least 5 days before outbreak identification. For seven of these eight LTCHs, positivity of floor swabs exceeded 10% more than 10 days before the outbreak was identified. CONCLUSIONS: Detection of SARS-CoV-2 on floors is strongly associated with Covid-19 outbreaks in LTCHs. These data suggest a potential role for floor sampling in improving early outbreak identification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Fralick
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Sinai Health System, Toronto
| | - Caroline Nott
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa
| | - Jason Moggridge
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto
| | - Lucas Castellani
- Sault Area Hospital, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada
- Clinical Sciences Division, NOSM University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - David S Guttman
- Centre for the Analysis of Genome Evolution and Function, University of Toronto, Toronto
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto
| | - Aaron Hinz
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa
| | - Nisha Thampi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa
| | - Alex Wong
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa
- Institute for Advancing Health Through Agriculture, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, College Station, TX
| | - Doug Manuel
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa
| | - Allison McGeer
- Department of Microbiology, Sinai Health System, Toronto
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto
| | | | - Hebah Mejbel
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa
| | | | - Madison Burella
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Sinai Health System, Toronto
- Sault Area Hospital, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sylva L Donaldson
- Centre for the Analysis of Genome Evolution and Function, University of Toronto, Toronto
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto
| | - Pauline W Wang
- Centre for the Analysis of Genome Evolution and Function, University of Toronto, Toronto
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto
| | - Rees Kassen
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa
| | - Derek R MacFadden
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Shroff FMC. Flames of transformation: Igniting better mental and physical health for racialized and gendered North Americans. Front Glob Womens Health 2023; 4:1126934. [PMID: 36860346 PMCID: PMC9968936 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2023.1126934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is catalyzing both crises and opportunities for communities of color. The crisis of high mental and physical morbidities and mortalities exposes persistent inequities while providing opportunities to celebrate the power of rejuvenated anti-racism movements, fueled partly in response to the extremism of ultra-conservative governments, the circumstances to reflect deeply on racism because of forced stay-at-home-orders, and digital technologies primarily driven by youth. In marking this historical moment of longstanding anti-racism and decolonial struggles, I assert the importance of foregrounding women's needs. In analyzing racism, rooted in colonialism and white supremacy, and its impacts on mental and physical health status, I focus on improving racialized women's lives within the larger context, concentrating on the determinants of health. I contend that fanning the flames to scathe the racist and sexist foundations of North American society will break new ground for sharing wealth, bolstering solidarity and sisterhood, and ultimately improving Black, Indigenous, and Women of Color (BIWOC) health. Canadian BIWOC earn approximately 59 cents to the dollar earned by non-racialized men, creating vulnerabilities to economic downturns, such as the one Canada is currently in. BIWOC care aides, at the bottom of the healthcare hierarchy, are emblematic of other Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), who face risks of frontline work, low wages, poor job security, unpaid sick days and so forth. To that end, policy recommendations include employment equity initiatives that hire groups of racialized women who consciously express solidarity with each other. Cultural shifts within institutions will be key to providing safe environments. Improving food security, internet access and BIWOC-related data collection linked to community-based programming while prioritizing research on BIWOC will go a long way toward improving BIWOC health. Addressing racism and sexism within the healthcare system, aiming for equitable diagnostic and treatment foci, will require transformative efforts including determined leadership and buy-in from all levels of staff, long-term training and evaluation programs, audited by BIPOC communities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farah Mahrukh Coomi Shroff
- Department of Family Practice and School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Maternal and Infant Health Canada, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Correspondence: Farah Mahrukh Coomi Shroff
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
"Because if I don't hold his hand then I might as well not be there": Experiences of Dutch and UK care home visiting during the COVID-19 pandemic. Int Psychogeriatr 2023; 35:107-116. [PMID: 35039101 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610221002799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore and compare the experiences of care home visits during the pandemic in the UK and the Netherlands. DESIGN Qualitative semi-structured interview studies. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Family carers of relatives residing in care homes in the UK and the Netherlands were interviewed remotely. METHODS Family carers were asked about their experiences of care home visits during the pandemic, and specifically in the Netherlands after care homes had reopened. Transcripts were analyzed in each country separately in the native language using thematic analysis, before discussing findings at multiple analysis meetings. RESULTS Across 125 interviews, we developed four themes: (1) different types of contact during lockdown; (2) deterioration of resident health and well-being; (3) emotional distress of both visitors and residents; and (4) compliance to guidelines and regulations. Visiting in both the UK and the Netherlands was beneficial, if possible in the UK, yet was characterized by alternative forms of face-to-face visits which was emotionally distressing for many family carers and residents. In the Netherlands, government guidance did enable early care home visitation, while the UK was lacking any guidance leading to care homes implementing restrictions differently. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Early and clear guidance, as well as communication, is required in future pandemics, and in this ongoing pandemic, to enable care home visits between residents and loved ones. It is important to take learnings from this global pandemic to reimagine long-term care, highlighting the value of socializing for care home residents.
Collapse
|
30
|
Ullah A, Whittaker W, Bradley F, Nelson PA, Dowding D, Morciano M, Cullum N. The use and impact of digital COVID-19 tracking in adult social care: a prospective cohort study of care homes in Greater Manchester. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:47. [PMID: 36690927 PMCID: PMC9869837 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07939-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To support proactive care during the coronavirus pandemic, a digital COVID-19 symptom tracker was deployed in Greater Manchester (UK) care homes. This study aimed to understand what factors were associated with the post-uptake use of the tracker and whether the tracker had any effects in controlling the spread of COVID-19. METHODS Daily data on COVID-19, tracker uptake and use, and other key indicators such as staffing levels, the number of staff self-isolating, availability of personal protective equipment, bed occupancy levels, and any problems in accepting new residents were analysed for 547 care homes across Greater Manchester for the period April 2020 to April 2021. Differences in tracker use across local authorities, types of care homes, and over time were assessed using correlated effects logistic regressions. Differences in numbers of COVID-19 cases in homes adopting versus not adopting the tracker were compared via event design difference-in-difference estimations. RESULTS Homes adopting the tracker used it on 44% of days post-adoption. Use decreased by 88% after one year of uptake (odds ratio 0.12; 95% confidence interval 0.06-0.28). Use was highest in the locality initiating the project (odds ratio 31.73; 95% CI 3.76-268.05). Care homes owned by a chain had lower use (odds ratio 0.30; 95% CI 0.14-0.63 versus single ownership care homes), and use was not associated with COVID-19 or staffing levels. Tracker uptake had no impact on controlling COVID-19 spread. Staff self-isolating and local area COVID-19 cases were positively associated with lagged COVID-19 spread in care homes (relative risks 1.29; 1.2-1.4 and 1.05; 1.0-1.1, respectively). CONCLUSIONS The use of the COVID-19 symptom tracker in care homes was not maintained except in Locality 1 and did not appear to reduce the COVID-19 spread. COVID-19 cases in care homes were mainly driven by care home local-area COVID-19 cases and infections among the staff members. Digital deterioration trackers should be co-produced with care home staff, and local authorities should provide long-term support in their adoption and use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akbar Ullah
- grid.5379.80000000121662407Manchester Centre for Health Economics, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Jean McFarlane Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | - William Whittaker
- grid.5379.80000000121662407Manchester Centre for Health Economics, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Jean McFarlane Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | - Fay Bradley
- grid.5379.80000000121662407Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Jean McFarlane Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | - Pauline A. Nelson
- grid.5379.80000000121662407Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Jean McFarlane Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | - Dawn Dowding
- grid.5379.80000000121662407Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Jean McFarlane Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | - Marcello Morciano
- grid.7548.e0000000121697570Department of Economics, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Università, 4, 41121 Modena, MO Italy
| | - Nicky Cullum
- grid.5379.80000000121662407Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Jean McFarlane Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Zhang J, Yu Y, Petrovic M, Pei X, Tian QB, Zhang L, Zhang WH. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and corresponding control measures on long-term care facilities: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Age Ageing 2023; 52:6987654. [PMID: 36668818 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afac308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long-term care facilities (LTCFs) were high-risk settings for COVID-19 outbreaks. OBJECTIVE To assess the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on LTCFs, including rates of infection, hospitalisation, case fatality, and mortality, and to determine the association between control measures and SARS-CoV-2 infection rates in residents and staff. METHOD We conducted a systematic search of six databases for articles published between December 2019 and 5 November 2021, and performed meta-analyses and subgroup analyses to identify the impact of COVID-19 on LTCFs and the association between control measures and infection rate. RESULTS We included 108 studies from 19 countries. These studies included 1,902,044 residents and 255,498 staff from 81,572 LTCFs, among whom 296,024 residents and 36,807 staff were confirmed SARS-CoV-2 positive. The pooled infection rate was 32.63% (95%CI: 30.29 ~ 34.96%) for residents, whereas it was 10.33% (95%CI: 9.46 ~ 11.21%) for staff. In LTCFs that cancelled visits, new patient admissions, communal dining and group activities, and vaccinations, infection rates in residents and staff were lower than the global rate. We reported the residents' hospitalisation rate to be 29.09% (95%CI: 25.73 ~ 32.46%), with a case-fatality rate of 22.71% (95%CI: 21.31 ~ 24.11%) and mortality rate of 15.81% (95%CI: 14.32 ~ 17.30%). Significant publication biases were observed in the residents' case-fatality rate and the staff infection rate, but not in the infection, hospitalisation, or mortality rate of residents. CONCLUSION SARS-CoV-2 infection rates would be very high among LTCF residents and staff without appropriate control measures. Cancelling visits, communal dining and group activities, restricting new admissions, and increasing vaccination would significantly reduce the infection rates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhang
- International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH), Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium.,The Research Center for Medical Sociology, Tsinghua University, 100084 Beijing, China
| | - Yushan Yu
- International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH), Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Mirko Petrovic
- Section of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Xiaomei Pei
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Qing-Bao Tian
- China-Australia Joint Research Center for Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, 710061 Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Artificial Intelligence and Modelling in Epidemiology Program, Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne 3053, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne 3800, Australia.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, 450001 Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Wei-Hong Zhang
- International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH), Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium.,School of Public Health, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Bruxelles 1070, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Armstrong P, Armstrong H, Bourgeault IL. Teaming up for long-term care: Recognizing all long-term care staff contribute to quality care. Healthc Manage Forum 2023; 36:26-29. [PMID: 36112848 DOI: 10.1177/08404704221115811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
When looking to promising international approaches to improve quality care in long-term care, it is necessary to avoid cherry-picking specific dimensions ignoring the integrated nature of what makes these approaches promising in the first place. In looking at promising Scandinavian or Green House models, attention is often paid to the size of facility. This often overlooks the importance of higher level of staffing, mix, and compensation of direct care staff and the integration of dietary, laundry, and housekeeping staff to care teams. Other overlooked considerations include recognition of family and friends and policies supporting care continuity.
Collapse
|
33
|
Haslam-Larmer L, Grigorovich A, Quirt H, Engel K, Stewart S, Rodrigues K, Kontos P, Astell A, McMurray J, Levy A, Bingham KS, Flint AJ, Maxwell C, Iaboni A. Prevalence, causes, and consequences of moral distress in healthcare providers caring for people living with dementia in long-term care during a pandemic. DEMENTIA 2023; 22:5-27. [PMID: 36240074 PMCID: PMC9574526 DOI: 10.1177/14713012221124995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Healthcare providers caring for people living with dementia may experience moral distress when faced with ethically challenging situations, such as the inability to provide care that is consistent with their values. The COVID-19 pandemic produced conditions in long-term care homes (hereafter referred to as 'care homes') that could potentially contribute to moral distress. We conducted an online survey to examine changes in moral distress during the pandemic, its contributing factors and correlates, and its impact on the well-being of care home staff. Survey participants (n = 227) working in care homes across Ontario, Canada were recruited through provincial care home organizations. Using a Bayesian approach, we examined the association between moral distress and staff demographics and roles, and characteristics of the long-term care home. We performed a qualitative analysis of the survey's free-text responses. More than 80% of care home healthcare providers working with people with dementia reported an increase in moral distress since the start of the pandemic. There was no difference in the severity of distress by age, sex, role, or years of experience. The most common factors associated with moral distress were lack of activities and family visits, insufficient staffing and high turnover, and having to follow policies and procedures that were perceived to harm residents with dementia. At least two-thirds of respondents reported feelings of physical exhaustion, sadness/anxiety, frustration, powerlessness, and guilt due to the moral distress experienced during the pandemic. Respondents working in not-for-profit or municipal homes reported less sadness/anxiety and feelings of not wanting to go to work than those in for-profit homes. Front-line staff were more likely to report not wanting to work than those in management or administrative positions. Overall, we found that increases in moral distress during the pandemic negatively affected the well-being of healthcare providers in care homes, with preliminary evidence suggesting that individual and systemic factors may intensify the negative effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alisa Grigorovich
- KITE Research Institute, University Health Network, 7961Toronto.,Recreation and Leisure Studies, 104266Brock University, St. Catherines, ON, Canada
| | - Hannah Quirt
- KITE Research Institute, University Health Network, 7961Toronto
| | - Katia Engel
- KITE Research Institute, University Health Network, 7961Toronto
| | - Steven Stewart
- KITE Research Institute, University Health Network, 7961Toronto
| | - Kevin Rodrigues
- KITE Research Institute, University Health Network, 7961Toronto
| | - Pia Kontos
- KITE Research Institute, University Health Network, 7961Toronto.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, 7961University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Arlene Astell
- KITE Research Institute, University Health Network, 7961Toronto.,Departments of Occupational Sciences & Occupational Therapy and Psychiatry, 7938University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,School of Psychology & Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, UK
| | - Josephine McMurray
- 8431Lazaridis School of Business & Economics Wilfrid Laurier University, Brantford, ON, Canada
| | - AnneMarie Levy
- 8431Lazaridis School of Business & Economics Wilfrid Laurier University, Brantford, ON, Canada
| | - Kathleen S Bingham
- Department of Psychiatry, Center of Mental Health, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, 7938University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alastair J Flint
- Department of Psychiatry, Center of Mental Health, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, 7938University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Colleen Maxwell
- Schools of Pharmacy and Public Health Sciences, 8430University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Andrea Iaboni
- KITE Research Institute, University Health Network, 7961Toronto.,Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, 7938University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Preuß B, Fischer L, Schmidt A, Seibert K, Hoel V, Domhoff D, Heinze F, Brannath W, Wolf-Ostermann K, Rothgang H. COVID-19 in German Nursing Homes: The Impact of Facilities' Structures on the Morbidity and Mortality of Residents-An Analysis of Two Cross-Sectional Surveys. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:610. [PMID: 36612931 PMCID: PMC9819748 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic constitutes an exceptional risk to people living and working in nursing homes (NHs). There were numerous cases and deaths among NH residents, especially at the beginning of the pandemic when no vaccines had yet been developed. Besides regional differences, individual NHs showed vast differences in the number of cases and deaths: while in some, nobody was affected, in others, many people were infected or died. We examine the relationship between facility structures and their effect on infections and deaths of NH residents and infections of staff, while considering the influence of COVID-19 prevalence among the general population on the incidence of infection in NHs. Two nationwide German surveys were conducted during the first and second pandemic waves, comprising responses from n = 1067 NHs. Different hurdle models, with an assumed Bernoulli distribution for zero density and a negative binomial distribution for the count density, were fitted. It can be shown that the probability of an outbreak, and the number of cases/deaths among residents and staff, increased with an increasing number of staff and the general spread of the virus. Therefore, reverse isolation of NH residents was an inadequate form of protection, especially at the beginning of the pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Preuß
- SOCIUM Research Center on Inequality and Social Policy, University of Bremen, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - Lasse Fischer
- Competence Center for Clinical Trials Bremen (KKSB), University of Bremen, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - Annika Schmidt
- Institute for Public Health and Nursing Research, University of Bremen, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - Kathrin Seibert
- Institute for Public Health and Nursing Research, University of Bremen, 28359 Bremen, Germany
- Leibniz Science Campus Digital Public Health, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - Viktoria Hoel
- Institute for Public Health and Nursing Research, University of Bremen, 28359 Bremen, Germany
- Leibniz Science Campus Digital Public Health, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - Dominik Domhoff
- Institute for Public Health and Nursing Research, University of Bremen, 28359 Bremen, Germany
- Leibniz Science Campus Digital Public Health, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - Franziska Heinze
- SOCIUM Research Center on Inequality and Social Policy, University of Bremen, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - Werner Brannath
- Competence Center for Clinical Trials Bremen (KKSB), University of Bremen, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - Karin Wolf-Ostermann
- Institute for Public Health and Nursing Research, University of Bremen, 28359 Bremen, Germany
- Leibniz Science Campus Digital Public Health, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - Heinz Rothgang
- SOCIUM Research Center on Inequality and Social Policy, University of Bremen, 28359 Bremen, Germany
- Leibniz Science Campus Digital Public Health, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
COVID-19 and the Experiences and Needs of Staff and Management Working at the Front Lines of Long-Term Care in Central Canada. Can J Aging 2022; 41:614-619. [PMID: 35135643 DOI: 10.1017/s0714980821000696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Across the globe, long-term care has been under increased pressure throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. This is the first study to examine the experiences and needs of long-term care staff and management during COVID-19, in the Canadian context. Our group conducted online survey research with 70 staff and management working at public long-term care facilities in central Canada, using validated quantitative measures to examine perceived stress and caregiver burden; and open-ended items to explore stressors, ways of coping, and barriers to accessing mental health supports. Findings indicate moderate levels of stress and caregiver burden, and highlight the significant stressors associated with working in long-term care during the COVID-19 pandemic (i.e., rapid changes in pandemic guidelines, increased workload, "meeting the needs of residents and families", fear of contracting COVID-19 and COVID-19 coming into long-term care facilities, and concern over a negative public view of long-term care staff and facilities). A small subset (13.2%) of our sample identified accessing mental health supports to cope with work-related stress, with most participants identifying barriers to seeking help. Novel findings of this research highlight the significant and unmet needs of this high-risk segment of the population.
Collapse
|
36
|
Axenhus M, Frederiksen KS, Zhou RZ, Waldemar G, Winblad B. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mortality in people with dementia without COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:878. [PMCID: PMC9675075 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-03602-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Significant mortality amongst vulnerable populations, such as people living with dementia, might go undetected during pandemic conditions due to refocus of care efforts. There is an urgent need to fully evaluate the pandemic impact on mortality amongst people living with dementia in order to facilitate future healthcare reforms and prevent deaths. The purpose of this study was to determine whether there was any significant difference in mortality amongst people with dementia without COVID-19 during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to previous years. Methods A literature search was conducted in 5 databases. The relative risk ratio and confidence interval was used to estimate the change in mortality rates amongst people with dementia during the COVID-19 pandemic. The I2 value was used to assess heterogeneity, publication bias, and sensitivity analyses were performed. Results Pooled analysis of 11 studies showed that mortality amongst people living with dementia was significantly increased during the COVID-19 pandemic for people with dementia without COVID-19. Mortality risk increased by 25% during the time period studied. Subgroup analysis was not performed due the low number of included studies. Conclusions The results of this study suggest that people with dementia had a significant increased mortality during the pandemic even if they did not have COVID-19. People with dementia should participate in efforts that reduce general social spread and pandemic impact on healthcare system such as vaccinations, mask mandates, and testing. These results have clinical implications as preventing direct COVID-19 infection is not enough to adequately protect people living with dementia from increased mortality. Measures to limit social spread of infections and help support patients should also be a focus for clinicians. Further research should focus on the identification of mechanisms and other explanations for increased mortality as well as contributing factors such as living in care homes and differences between countries with various pandemic strategies. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12877-022-03602-6.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Axenhus
- grid.465198.7Division of Neurogeriatrics, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden ,grid.24381.3c0000 0000 9241 5705Theme Inflammation and Aging, Karolinska University hospital, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Kristian Steen Frederiksen
- grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDanish Dementia Research Centre, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Robin Ziyue Zhou
- grid.465198.7Division of Neurogeriatrics, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
| | - Gunhild Waldemar
- grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDanish Dementia Research Centre, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark ,grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDept. of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bengt Winblad
- grid.465198.7Division of Neurogeriatrics, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden ,grid.24381.3c0000 0000 9241 5705Theme Inflammation and Aging, Karolinska University hospital, Huddinge, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Culture Change in Long-Term Care-Post COVID-19: Adapting to a New Reality Using Established Ideas and Systems. Can J Aging 2022; 42:351-358. [PMID: 36349718 DOI: 10.1017/s0714980822000344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The response to the COVID-19 pandemic in long-term care (LTC) has threatened to undo efforts to transform the culture of care from institutionalized to de-institutionalized models characterized by an orientation towards person- and relationship-centred care. Given the pandemic’s persistence, the sustainability of culture-change efforts has come under scrutiny. Drawing on seven culture-change models implemented in Canada, we identify organizational prerequisites, facilitatory mechanisms, and frontline changes relevant to culture change that can strengthen the COVID-19 pandemic response in LTC homes. We contend that a reversal to institutionalized care models to achieve public health goals of limiting COVID-19 and other infectious disease outbreaks is detrimental to LTC residents, their families, and staff. Culture change and infection control need not be antithetical. Both strategies share common goals and approaches that can be integrated as LTC practitioners consider ongoing interventions to improve residents’ quality of life, while ensuring the well-being of staff and residents’ families.
Collapse
|
38
|
Ma H, Yiu KCY, Baral SD, Fahim C, Moloney G, Darvin D, Landsman D, Chan AK, Straus S, Mishra S. COVID-19 Cases Among Congregate Care Facility Staff by Neighborhood of Residence and Social and Structural Determinants: Observational Study. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2022; 8:e34927. [PMID: 35867901 PMCID: PMC9534317 DOI: 10.2196/34927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Disproportionate risks of COVID-19 in congregate care facilities including long-term care homes, retirement homes, and shelters both affect and are affected by SARS-CoV-2 infections among facility staff. In cities across Canada, there has been a consistent trend of geographic clustering of COVID-19 cases. However, there is limited information on how COVID-19 among facility staff reflects urban neighborhood disparities, particularly when stratified by the social and structural determinants of community-level transmission. Objective This study aimed to compare the concentration of cumulative cases by geography and social and structural determinants across 3 mutually exclusive subgroups in the Greater Toronto Area (population: 7.1 million): community, facility staff, and health care workers (HCWs) in other settings. Methods We conducted a retrospective, observational study using surveillance data on laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases (January 23 to December 13, 2020; prior to vaccination rollout). We derived neighborhood-level social and structural determinants from census data and generated Lorenz curves, Gini coefficients, and the Hoover index to visualize and quantify inequalities in cases. Results The hardest-hit neighborhoods (comprising 20% of the population) accounted for 53.87% (44,937/83,419) of community cases, 48.59% (2356/4849) of facility staff cases, and 42.34% (1669/3942) of other HCW cases. Compared with other HCWs, cases among facility staff reflected the distribution of community cases more closely. Cases among facility staff reflected greater social and structural inequalities (larger Gini coefficients) than those of other HCWs across all determinants. Facility staff cases were also more likely than community cases to be concentrated in lower-income neighborhoods (Gini 0.24, 95% CI 0.15-0.38 vs 0.14, 95% CI 0.08-0.21) with a higher household density (Gini 0.23, 95% CI 0.17-0.29 vs 0.17, 95% CI 0.12-0.22) and with a greater proportion working in other essential services (Gini 0.29, 95% CI 0.21-0.40 vs 0.22, 95% CI 0.17-0.28). Conclusions COVID-19 cases among facility staff largely reflect neighborhood-level heterogeneity and disparities, even more so than cases among other HCWs. The findings signal the importance of interventions prioritized and tailored to the home geographies of facility staff in addition to workplace measures, including prioritization and reach of vaccination at home (neighborhood level) and at work.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huiting Ma
- St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kristy C Y Yiu
- St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Stefan D Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Christine Fahim
- St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gary Moloney
- St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Dariya Darvin
- St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - David Landsman
- St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Adrienne K Chan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Sunnybrook Health Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sharon Straus
- St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sharmistha Mishra
- St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Incidence, Hospitalization, Mortality and Risk Factors of COVID-19 in Long-Term Care Residential Homes for Patients with Chronic Mental Illness. EPIDEMIOLGIA (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 3:391-401. [PMID: 36417246 PMCID: PMC9620926 DOI: 10.3390/epidemiologia3030030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Long-term care residential homes (LTCRH) for patients with chronic mental illness have suffered the enormous impact of COVID-19. This study aimed to estimate incidence, hospitalization, mortality, and risk factors of COVID-19 to prevent future epidemics. From March 2020 to January 2021 and before vaccination anti-SARS-CoV-2 begins, cumulate incidence rate (CIR), hospitalization rate (HR), mortality rate (MR), and risk factors of COVID-19 in the 11 LTCRH of two Health Departments of Castellon (Spain) were studied by epidemiological surveillance and an ecological design. Laboratory tests confirmed COVID-19 cases, and multilevel Poisson regression models were employed. All LTCRH participated and comprised 346 residents and 482 staff. Residents had a mean age of 47 years, 40% women, and suffered 75 cases of COVID-19 (CIR = 21.7%), five hospitalizations (HR = 1.4%), and two deaths (MR = 0.6%) with 2.5% fatality-case. Staff suffered 74 cases of the disease (CIR = 15.4%), one hospitalization (HR = 0.2%), and no deaths were reported. Risk factors associated with COVID-19 incidence in residents were private ownership, severe disability, residents be younger, CIR in municipalities where LTCRH was located, CIR in staff, and older age of the facilities. Conclusion: COVID-19 incidence could be prevented by improving infection control in residents and staff and modernizing facilities with increased public ownership.
Collapse
|
40
|
Zunzunegui MV, Béland F, Rico M, López FJG. Long-Term Care Home Size Association with COVID-19 Infection and Mortality in Catalonia in March and April 2020. EPIDEMIOLGIA (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 3:369-390. [PMID: 36417245 PMCID: PMC9620903 DOI: 10.3390/epidemiologia3030029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
We aim to assess how COVID-19 infection and mortality varied according to facility size in 965 long-term care homes (LTCHs) in Catalonia during March and April 2020. We measured LTCH size by the number of authorised beds. Outcomes were COVID-19 infection (at least one COVID-19 case in an LTCH) and COVID-19 mortality. Risks of these were estimated with logistic regression and hurdle models. Models were adjusted for county COVID-19 incidence and population, and LTCH types. Sixty-five per cent of the LTCHs were infected by COVID-19. We found a strong association between COVID-19 infection and LTCH size in the adjusted analysis (from 45% in 10-bed homes to 97.5% in those with over 150 places). The average COVID-19 mortality in all LTCHs was 6.8% (3887 deaths) and 9.2% among the COVID-19-infected LTCHs. Very small and large homes had higher COVID-19 mortality, whereas LTCHs with 30 to 70 places had the lowest level. COVID-19 mortality sharply increased with LTCH size in counties with a cumulative incidence of COVID-19 which was higher than 250/100,000, except for very small homes, but slightly decreased with LTCH size when the cumulative incidence of COVID-19 was lower. To prevent infection and preserve life, the optimal size of an LTCH should be between 30 and 70 places.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Victoria Zunzunegui
- École de Santé Publique, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3N 1X9, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-692-064-134
| | - François Béland
- École de Santé Publique, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3N 1X9, Canada
- Institut Lady Davis, Montreal Jewish Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
McCarthy LM, Farrell B, Howell P, Quast T. Supporting deprescribing in long-term care: An approach using stakeholder engagement, behavioural science and implementation planning. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2022; 7:100168. [PMID: 36045709 PMCID: PMC9420956 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2022.100168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Approaches for optimizing medication use and enhancing medication experiences, including deprescribing, for older people living in long-term care homes are urgently needed. Through a multiphase initiative involving an environmental scan (2018) and two stakeholder forums (2019, 2020), we created a framework for developing and implementing sustainable deprescribing practices in this sector. Representatives from public advocacy, health care professionals, long-term care, pharmacy service providers, and regional health and public policy organizations in Ontario, Canada were consulted. We used behavioural science and implementation planning strategies to develop four target behaviours and 14 supporting actions; five of these actions were prioritized for further work. Throughout the phases, stakeholders committed to participation at various levels including ongoing implementation teams working to develop resources for the prioritized actions. A key element of success was attracting and sustaining engagement of a wide variety of relevant stakeholders from across the health system by leveraging best practices in stakeholder engagement. The approach used is described in detail so that it can be adapted and applied by others to plan large behaviour change initiatives.
Collapse
|
42
|
Giebel C, Hanna K, Cannon J, Shenton J, Mason S, Tetlow H, Marlow P, Rajagopal M, Gabbay M. Taking the 'care' out of care homes: The moral dilemma of institutional long-term care provision during COVID-19. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e2127-e2136. [PMID: 34806233 PMCID: PMC9011824 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Little is known on how the pandemic has changed care home care delivery. The aim of this study was to explore the impact of COVID-19 on care provision and visits in care homes from staff and family members' perspectives. For this purpose, we conducted a telephone- and zoom-based qualitative semi-structured interview study. Care home staff and family carers of people living with dementia (PLWD) across the UK were recruited via convenience sampling and participated via telephone or online. Participants took part in a semi-structured remote interview. Data were collected between October and November 2020. Anonymised transcripts were analysed separately by two research team members using thematic analysis, with codes discussed and themes generated jointly, supported by research team input. 42 participants (26 family carers and 16 care home staff) took part. Five themes were generated: (a) Care home reputation and financial implications; (b) Lack of care; (c) Communication or lack thereof; (d) Visiting rights/changes based on residents' needs; (e) Deterioration of residents. With a lack of clear guidance throughout the pandemic, care homes delivered care differently with disparities in the levels and types of visiting allowed for family members. Lack of communication between care homes and family members, but also government and care homes, led to family carers feeling excluded and concerned about the well-being of their relative. Improved communication and clear guidance for care homes and the public are required to negate the potentially damaging effects of COVID-19 restrictions upon residents, their families and the carers who support them.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa Giebel
- Department of Primary Care & Mental HealthUniversity of LiverpoolLiverpoolUK
- NIHR ARC NWCLiverpoolUK
| | - Kerry Hanna
- Department of Primary Care & Mental HealthUniversity of LiverpoolLiverpoolUK
| | | | | | - Stephen Mason
- Palliative Care UnitUniversity of LiverpoolLiverpoolUK
| | | | | | | | - Mark Gabbay
- Department of Primary Care & Mental HealthUniversity of LiverpoolLiverpoolUK
- NIHR ARC NWCLiverpoolUK
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Losada-Castillo I, Santiago-Pérez MI, Naveira-Barbeito G, Otero-Barros MT, Pérez-Martínez O, Zubizarreta-Alberdi R. [Impact of COVID-19 pandemic in terms of incidence and lethality in nursing homes in Galicia (Spain)]. Rev Esp Geriatr Gerontol 2022; 57:257-263. [PMID: 36089448 PMCID: PMC9399179 DOI: 10.1016/j.regg.2022.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To know the impact of COVID-19 in incidence and lethality in nursing homes in Galicia. METHODS This is a descriptive study of nursing homes residents and workers with confirmed COVID-19. The analysis spanned from March 1, 2020 to March 27, 2022, stratified into 6 periods (one per wave). The impact on incidence (attack rate, number of outbreaks, reinfections, sex, age, and diagnostic technique) and lethality (by sex, age, place of death, and number of centers with deaths) was analyzed. RESULTS There were 15,819 people affected, 51.9% of the jobs and 47.0% of the workers. The attack rate in residents was: 5.8% in the first wave, 10.4% in the second, 6.3% in the third, 0.1% in the fourth, 2.1% in the fifth and 27.3% in the sixth. In the sixth wave, there were 11.3% reinfections and the number of outbreaks in was 3 times higher than in the second. The case fatality in residents was higher during the first wave (21.8%) and lower during the sixth (2.4%). He only had one worker in relation to COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS Surveillance of COVID-19 in nursing homes was essential to understand the dynamics of the disease. The sixth wave was the one with the highest incidence and the lowest lethality. Lethality was higher in the first wave. The fourth and fifth waves had a lower incidence due to the effects of vaccination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Losada-Castillo
- Servizo de Epidemioloxía, Dirección Xeral de Saúde Pública, Consellería de Sanidade, Galicia, España.
| | | | - Gael Naveira-Barbeito
- Servizo de Epidemioloxía, Dirección Xeral de Saúde Pública, Consellería de Sanidade, Galicia, España
| | - María Teresa Otero-Barros
- Servizo de Epidemioloxía, Dirección Xeral de Saúde Pública, Consellería de Sanidade, Galicia, España
| | - Olaia Pérez-Martínez
- Servizo de Epidemioloxía, Dirección Xeral de Saúde Pública, Consellería de Sanidade, Galicia, España
| | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Benet M, Celi-Medina P, Fernández M, Ezquerra S. The COVID-19 Pandemic in Care Homes: An Exploration of Its Impact across Regions in Spain. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159617. [PMID: 35954969 PMCID: PMC9368388 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This article provides an updated picture of the enormous consequences that the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic (March–June 2020) had for older adults living in Spanish care homes. It aims to describe the regional variation in deaths among home care residents through a methodological triangulation of descriptive quantitative, ecological and documentary analysis. Figures of five different indicators of care home mortality are provided and some factors related to higher mortality rates are presented and analysed in the descriptive ecological analysis in order to depict trends and, in a linear regression, to determine their statistical significance. The clearest trend reflected by the data is that the higher the cumulative incidence and the number of care home beds in the surrounding area, the higher the COVID-19 care home mortality. We argue that the pandemic has brought to light the historical fragility and underdevelopment of the Spanish LTC sector, and that these factors have exacerbated the consequences of the pandemic. Finally, we conclude that publicly available and disaggregated data would allow a deeper and more accurate analysis of potentially explanatory factors such as the type of care home ownership and management, and that further qualitative research would shed more light on people’s experiences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Benet
- Campus Docent Sant Joan de Déu, School of Nursing, Universitat de Barcelona, Carrer Sant Benito Menni, 18-20, 08830 Sant Boi del Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Patricia Celi-Medina
- Research Group on Inclusive Societies, Politics, and Communities, Universitat de Vic-Universitat Central de Catalunya, Masia Torre dels Frares, Carrer Perot Rocaguinarda, 17, 08500 Vic, Barcelona, Spain
- UNESCO Chair on Women, Development, and Cultures, Universitat de Vic-Universitat Central de Catalunya, Masia Torre dels Frares, Carrer Perot Rocaguinarda, 17, 08500 Vic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Montserrat Fernández
- Research Group on Inclusive Societies, Politics, and Communities, Universitat de Vic-Universitat Central de Catalunya, Masia Torre dels Frares, Carrer Perot Rocaguinarda, 17, 08500 Vic, Barcelona, Spain
- UNESCO Chair on Women, Development, and Cultures, Universitat de Vic-Universitat Central de Catalunya, Masia Torre dels Frares, Carrer Perot Rocaguinarda, 17, 08500 Vic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sandra Ezquerra
- Research Group on Inclusive Societies, Politics, and Communities, Universitat de Vic-Universitat Central de Catalunya, Masia Torre dels Frares, Carrer Perot Rocaguinarda, 17, 08500 Vic, Barcelona, Spain
- UNESCO Chair on Women, Development, and Cultures, Universitat de Vic-Universitat Central de Catalunya, Masia Torre dels Frares, Carrer Perot Rocaguinarda, 17, 08500 Vic, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Social Sciences and Community Health, School of Health and Welfare, Universitat de Vic-Universitat Central de Catalunya, Masia Torre dels Frares, Carrer Perot Rocaguinarda, 17, 08500 Vic, Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Verbiest MEA, Stoop A, Scheffelaar A, Janssen MM, van Boekel LC, Luijkx KG. Health impact of the first and second wave of COVID-19 and related restrictive measures among nursing home residents: a scoping review. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:921. [PMID: 35841028 PMCID: PMC9286708 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08186-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and objectives COVID-19 disproportionally affects older adults living in nursing homes. The purpose of this review was to explore and map the scientific literature on the health impact of COVID-19 and related restrictive measures during the first and second wave among nursing home residents. A specific focus was placed on health data collected among nursing home residents themselves. Research design and methods In this study, best practices for scoping reviews were followed. Five databases were systematically searched for peer-reviewed empirical studies published up until December 2020 in which data were collected among nursing home residents. Articles were categorized according to the type of health impact (physical, social and/or psychological) and study focus (impact of COVID-19 virus or related restrictive measures). Findings were presented using a narrative style. Results Of 60 included studies, 57 examined the physical impact of COVID-19. All of these focused on the direct impact of the COVID-19 virus. These studies often used an observational design and quantitative data collection methods, such as swab testing or reviewing health records. Only three studies examined the psychological impact of COVID-19 of which one study focused on the impact of COVID-19-related restrictive measures. Findings were contradictory; both decreased and improved psychological wellbeing was found during the pandemic compared with before. No studies were found that examined the impact on social wellbeing and one study examined other health-related outcomes, including preference changes of nursing home residents in Advanced Care planning following the pandemic. Discussion and implications Studies into the impact of the first and second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic among nursing home residents predominantly focused on the physical impact. Future studies into the psychological and social impact that collect data among residents themselves will provide more insight into their perspectives, such as lived experiences, wishes, needs and possibilities during later phases of the pandemic. These insights can inform policy makers and healthcare professionals in providing person-centered care during the remaining COVID-19 pandemic and in future crisis periods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marjolein E A Verbiest
- Academic Collaborative Centre Older Adults, Tranzo Scientific Centre for Care and Wellbeing, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, PO Box 90153, 5000 LE, Tilburg, the Netherlands.
| | - Annerieke Stoop
- Academic Collaborative Centre Older Adults, Tranzo Scientific Centre for Care and Wellbeing, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, PO Box 90153, 5000 LE, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Aukelien Scheffelaar
- Academic Collaborative Centre Older Adults, Tranzo Scientific Centre for Care and Wellbeing, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, PO Box 90153, 5000 LE, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Meriam M Janssen
- Academic Collaborative Centre Older Adults, Tranzo Scientific Centre for Care and Wellbeing, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, PO Box 90153, 5000 LE, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Leonieke C van Boekel
- Academic Collaborative Centre Older Adults, Tranzo Scientific Centre for Care and Wellbeing, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, PO Box 90153, 5000 LE, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Katrien G Luijkx
- Academic Collaborative Centre Older Adults, Tranzo Scientific Centre for Care and Wellbeing, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, PO Box 90153, 5000 LE, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Wilson MG, Gauvin FP, DeMaio P, Alam S, Drakos A, Soueidan S, Costa A, Reid R, Simeonov D, Sixsmith A, Sveistrup H, Lavis JN. Enhancing the use of technology in the long-term care sector in Canada: Insights from citizen panels and a national stakeholder dialogue. Healthc Manage Forum 2022; 35:310-317. [PMID: 35830436 PMCID: PMC9425718 DOI: 10.1177/08404704221108466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Enhancing the use of technology in long-term care has been identified as a key part of broader efforts to strengthen the sector in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. To inform such efforts, we convened a series of citizen panels, followed by a national stakeholder dialogue with system leaders focused on reimagining the long-term care sector using technology. Key actions prioritized through the deliberations convened included: developing an innovation roadmap/agenda (including national standards and guidelines); using co-design approaches for the strengthening the long-term care sector and for technological innovation; identifying and coordinating existing innovation projects to support scale and spread; enabling rapid-learning and improvement cycles to support the development, evaluation, and implementation of new technologies; and using funding models that enable the flexibility needed for such rapid-learning cycles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Peter DeMaio
- 3710McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Saif Alam
- 3710McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Andrew Costa
- 3710McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rob Reid
- 5543Trillium Health Partners, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Andrew Sixsmith
- 1763Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - John N Lavis
- 3710McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Collins RL, Williams EM, Moser AL, Varughese JM, Robert B. The Role of the Medical Director in Ontario Long-Term Care Homes: Impact of COVID-19. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2022; 23:1603-1607. [PMID: 35944589 PMCID: PMC9289006 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2022.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Objectives The pandemic has uncovered a broad lack of understanding of the role of the Medical Director in Canadian Long-Term Care (LTC) Homes. Our objectives were to identify the current demographics and practices of LTC Medical Directors, discover how the pandemic affected their practice habits, and inform the content of the Ontario Long-Term Care Clinicians Medical Director Course, to ensure that Medical Directors have the requisite knowledge of the responsibilities of their role. Design Email survey. Setting and Participants Medical directors in Ontario long-term care homes. Methods Responses to open-ended, close-ended, multiple-choice, and free-text questions. Results A total of 156 medical directors (approximately 24%) completed the survey. Ninety-four percent were family physicians. Approximately 40% of participants had been a medical director for fewer than 5 years, whereas more than 11% have been in the role for greater than 30 years. More than 60% spend fewer than 2 hours per week in their administrative role, with fewer than 23% completing formal evaluations of the attending clinicians. Greater than 75% are either satisfied or extremely satisfied in their medical director role, citing excellent engagement and collaboration with team members. Feelings of dissatisfaction were associated with pandemic stress, increased hours and responsibility, inadequate remuneration, lack of ability to make decisions and lack of acknowledgement that physicians add value to the interdisciplinary team. Conclusion and Implications It is clear that medical directors are in a unique position to impact the care of residents within LTC. It is imperative to engage medical directors as integral members of the LTC health care team. This can be achieved by acknowledging their medical expertise for improving outcomes, providing them with the authority for decision making, compensating them appropriately, and clearly defining the role. By making these changes, we can ensure that there is a higher likelihood to sustain effective medical leadership in LTC.
Collapse
|
48
|
The Impact of Long-Term Care Home Ownership and Administration Type on All-Cause Mortality from March to April 2020 in Madrid, Spain. EPIDEMIOLGIA (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 3:323-336. [PMID: 36417241 PMCID: PMC9620910 DOI: 10.3390/epidemiologia3030025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Our aim is to assess whether long-term care home (LTCH) ownership and administration type were associated with all-cause mortality in 470 LTCHs in the Community of Madrid (Spain) during March and April 2020, the first two months of the COVID-19 pandemic. There are eight categories of LTCH type, including various combinations of ownership type (for-profit, nonprofit, and public) and administration type (completely private, private with places rented by the public sector, administrative management by procurement, and completely public). Multilevel regression was used to examine the association between mortality and LTCH type, adjusting for LTCH size, the spread of the COVID-19 infection, and the referral hospital. There were 9468 deaths, a mortality rate of 18.3%. Public and private LTCHs had lower mortality than LTCHs under public-private partnership (PPP) agreements. In the fully adjusted model, mortality was 7.4% (95% CI, 3.1-11.7%) in totally public LTCHs compared with 21.9% (95% CI, 17.4-26.4%) in LTCHs which were publicly owned with administrative management by procurement. These results are a testimony to the fatal consequences that pre-pandemic public-private partnerships in long-term residential care led to during the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Community of Madrid, Spain.
Collapse
|
49
|
McLean J, Clark C, McKee A, Legue S, Cocking J, Lamarche A, Heerschap C, Morris S, Fletcher T, McKee C, Kennedy K, Gross L, Broeren A, Forder M, Barner W, Tebbutt C, Kings S, DiDiodato G. Pandemic Responsiveness in an Acute Care Setting: A Community Hospital's Utilization of Operational Resources During COVID-19. J Multidiscip Healthc 2022; 15:1309-1321. [PMID: 35726265 PMCID: PMC9206458 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s361896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To ensure continuity of services while mitigating patient surge and nosocomial infections during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, acute care hospitals have been required to make significant operational adjustments. Here, we identify and discuss key administrative priorities and strategies utilized by a large community hospital located in Ontario, Canada. Methods Guided by a qualitative descriptive approach, we performed a thematic analysis of all COVID-19-related documentation discussed by the hospital’s emergency operation centre (EOC) during the pandemic’s first wave. We then solicited operational strategies from a multidisciplinary group of hospital leaders to construct a narrative for each theme. Results Seven recurrent themes critical to the hospital’s pandemic response emerged: 1) Organizational structure: a modified EOC structure was adopted to increase departmental interoperability and situational awareness; 2) Capacity planning: Design Thinking guided rapid infrastructure decisions to meet surge requirements; 3) Occupational health and workplace safety: a multidisciplinary team provided respirator fit-testing, critical absence adjudication, and wellness needs; 4) Human resources/workforce planning: new workforce planning, recruitment, and redeployment strategies addressed staffing shortages; 5) Personal protective equipment (PPE): PPE conservation required proactive sourcing from traditional and non-traditional suppliers; 6) Community response: local partnerships were activated to divert patients through a non-referral-based assessment and treatment centre, support long-term care and retirement homes, and establish a 70-bed field hospital; and 7) Corporate communication: a robust communication strategy provided timely and transparent access to rapidly evolving information. Conclusion A community hospital’s operational preparedness for COVID-19 was supported by inter-operability, leveraging internal and external expertise and partnerships, creative problem solving, and developing novel tools to support occupational health and community initiatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jesse McLean
- Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, Barrie, ON, Canada
| | - Cathy Clark
- Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, Barrie, ON, Canada
| | - Aidan McKee
- Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, Barrie, ON, Canada.,School of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Suzanne Legue
- Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, Barrie, ON, Canada
| | - Jane Cocking
- Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, Barrie, ON, Canada
| | | | | | - Sarah Morris
- Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, Barrie, ON, Canada
| | | | - Corey McKee
- Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, Barrie, ON, Canada
| | | | - Leigh Gross
- Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, Barrie, ON, Canada
| | - Andrew Broeren
- Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, Barrie, ON, Canada
| | - Matthew Forder
- Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, Barrie, ON, Canada
| | - Wendy Barner
- Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, Barrie, ON, Canada
| | - Chris Tebbutt
- Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, Barrie, ON, Canada
| | - Suzanne Kings
- Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, Barrie, ON, Canada
| | - Giulio DiDiodato
- Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, Barrie, ON, Canada.,Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Benbow WB. COVID-19 in Long-Term Care: The Built Environment Impact on Infection Control. HERD-HEALTH ENVIRONMENTS RESEARCH & DESIGN JOURNAL 2022; 15:287-298. [PMID: 35684993 DOI: 10.1177/19375867221101897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this article is to review available literature for evidence-based impact of the built environment upon the prevention and management of COVID-19 with a view to emphasizing lessons learned for future infection control of pandemics. BACKGROUND This is urgently needed given the devastation brought upon long-term care residents worldwide. Long-term care (LTC) facilities face a battle to protect their residents. Previous studies of infection control design issues have focused generally on Fomites: that is, contaminated objects and surfaces. As COVID-19 has been shown to be largely spread through the air, this article will broaden the focus to include engineering controls that effect this type of transmission. METHOD A literature search was conducted using key words such as long-term care facilities, built environment, COVID-19, infection control, and nursing homes. RESULTS Results were sorted using an engineering controls pyramid developed by the author to stratify approaches to LTC infrastructure. Basically, six elements were supported: ventilation, spatial separation, physical barriers, hand hygiene stations, resident room zones, and private rooms. IMPLICATIONS Conclusions were that the built environment has a major impact on infection control that can be deleterious or beneficial. Substantial changes need to be made to protect the very vulnerable LTC population from future pandemics and infectious diseases.
Collapse
|