“These dire estimates highlight the severity of COVID-19 in elderly populations and the importance of infection prevention in congregate settings,” the study authors wrote.

Forty percent of acute care organizations are at risk of closure, two-thirds of which are organizations with less than 100 beds, due to financial challenges stemming from the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, according to a Definitive Healthcare survey released Tuesday morning.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recently collected safety and health information on cleaners and disinfectants that employers can use in their hazard communication programs. The NIOSH material includes a table of health hazards and protective measures for chemicals used as disinfectants.

While healthcare and law enforcement do not perform the same job, staff in both industries have many similarities. Both work in high-stress environments. Both often work with people who are upset, scared, aggressive, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or suffering from behavioral health problems. And both have the power to physically restrain someone if that person is deemed a threat to themselves and others.

The Joint Commission (TJC) issued several statements about resuming surveys that were suspended at the beginning of the COVID-19 patient surge in March. Just like other agencies during this fast-moving response to the coronavirus, much of the guidance continues to be updated. 

Consider adding one or more information technology experts to your survey response team if you are anticipating surveys from CMS, The Joint Commission (TJC), or other accrediting organizations (AO). Many surveys are being conducted at least in part through virtual technology, and you will need someone familiar with how to upload documents and manage virtual meetings and tracer activity on the run, say those with recent experience.