Department of Social Development and Department of Health ascertain situation at old age home
Matron Annatjie Steyn, who was also present at the meeting, said they are coping at this stage and no patient is neglected.
Ms Katrien van der Westhuizen, coordinator of communicable diseases from the Department of Health and Ms Lindiwe Motaung from the Department of Social Development, as well as other representatives from these departments, were present at the Standerton Old Age Home (Kosmos Aftree-oord) since 10am today, 3 April.
The manager of the old age home, Mr Jack la Grange, asked for clarification on whether government departments may visit the home without any appointment early on in the meeting as well as later on.
He asked what his legal position entails.
Ms Van der Westhuizen outlined a few measures during this lockdown period. Staff should wash their hands every 20 to 30 minutes and she explained the difference between surgical masks and N95-masks.
The former prevents germs from going out and the latter from coming in.
Mr La Grange said on this point that the wearing of material masks is better than nothing.
“Anyone who comes through the door with the flu or a slight cough has to go home,” he added.
The staff at the old age home is living on the premises. Other safety measures that were outlined include social distancing of the width of two arms and the need for cell phones to be cleaned. The glass and metal can be a breeding ground for viruses.
Floors have to be washed two to three times a day with a mixture of chlorine, soap, water and disinfectant.
Mr La Grange said cleaning begins at 5am the old age home.
Gloves furthermore are not needed for normal conversation.
Ms Van der Weshuizen also said normal sanitising is useless and demonstrated to sanitise between the fingers and around it.
Wearing of aprons is crucial.
“If you are worried about anything, please contact me,” she added.
The main objective of her department is to prevent the spreading of the virus. Hospital and clinics are limiting visitation.
A meeting of the Medical Joint Operation Committee (MJOC) is scheduled for Monday 6 April.
It takes one irresponsible person to spread the virus was also said. “I can’t afford a tragedy here,” Mr La Grange said.
Ms Van der Westhuizen said that anyone who wants to visit the facility has to make an appointment. A solid control system is in place at the home as well.
Matron Annatjie Steyn, who was also present at the meeting, said they are coping at this stage and no patient is neglected.
Representatives from the departments finally concurred that they are comfortable with the measures taken at Standerton’s Old Age Home.
Also read: One Covid-19 case confirmed in Standerton
Also read: Kosmos Aftree-oord benodig dringend twee opgeleide verpleegpersoneel
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