We know that people are very concerned about this rapidly spreading virus known as COVID-19 or the coronavirus. Naturally, those who have loved ones with serious illness in hospice or palliative care are even more concerned. Today, let’s discuss what we can do to protect ourselves and our loved ones from this and other infectious diseases, such as the influenza virus.

Did you know that infection control is one of the top concerns of hospice and palliative care professionals? At Kansas City Hospice & Palliative Care, quality patient care is our top priority. To accomplish this, we maintain the highest standards in infection control.

We already have strict protocols in place to prevent the spread of any disease. Whether your loved one receives care in their home, a nursing facility, a hospital, or one of our hospice houses, we are always alert to potential infections.

In fact, each family in our care has already received a printed booklet, either Guide to Hospice Care or Guide to Palliative Care. You’ll find Infection Control in the Home on page 44 as well as here online.

Preventing the spread of illness

We work proactively to protect everyone from spread of all types of infections, including COVID-19.  If you have questions or concerns at any time, your first step should be to contact your hospice or home health team.

Here are things that everyone should do to minimize exposure to infections:

• The number one way to stop the spread of illness remains to stay home if you are displaying any symptoms.
• Notify your hospice team if you or others in your household have serious respiratory symptoms, particularly if you have a fever.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Cover your cough or sneeze into your elbow or with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Stay home when you are sick except to get medical care.

How is Kansas City Hospice addressing current infection challenges?

We have policies, procedures, and guidelines in place to prevent the spread of all illnesses, including viruses such as influenza and the coronavirus. We have taken the following steps:

• Created a Virus Task Force to assist in planning for the needs of patients, families, visitors, and staff.
• Communicating closely with our state and local partners, including local and state health departments, Mid-America Regional Council, and the KC Regional Home Care Association who are all tasked with providing guidance and support.
• Reinforcing best practices to prevent the spread of colds, influenza, and other viruses to staff, patients, families, and visitors. Focused attention is on regular infection control procedures and limiting transmission through hand washing, proper bag and equipment cleaning, and use of sanitizers.

According to Mary Beverly, interim director of the Johnson County Health Department, “There is currently no evidence of widespread community transmission of COVID-19 in Johnson County or in the Kansas City metro area.”

To put this in perspective, influenza remains a bigger everyday threat to the general population than the COVID-19.  In all cases, hand washing and sanitizing surfaces with disposable wipes is a key in preventing transmission of colds, flu, and these unique viruses.  If anyone is ill with respiratory symptoms and fever, they should isolate and contact their doctor’s office or us for instructions.  

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