Infection-Control Protocol Acceptability in Skilled Nursing Facilities During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Area of Science:

• Infection Control
• Public Health
• Geriatric Care

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for effective infection control strategies in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs).
• Novel approaches are required to mitigate transmission risks while maintaining resident well-being and staff functionality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the acceptability of a new infection control strategy for SNF staff and residents during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To identify implementation challenges, propose solutions, and understand perceived impacts of the intervention.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative descriptive approach was used, analyzing semistructured interviews with 71 staff and 16 residents.
• The study investigated a novel cohorting intervention based on infection risk to assign staff to residents in two NYC SNFs.

Main Results:

• Both staff and residents found the cohorting intervention acceptable.
• Key challenges included potential staffing issues and care discontinuity; clear communication was identified as crucial.
• Staff perceived the intervention could reduce infection fear, improve PPE use, and decrease resident isolation.

Conclusions:

• A novel, acceptable infection control strategy was developed for SNFs, potentially improving resident flexibility and reducing isolation and staff stress.
• Effective communication is vital for enhancing intervention acceptability and perceived impact.
• Future research should consider social isolation and staff burnout as outcomes.