Importance of infection control and continence management plans in assisted living communities during the COVID-19 pandemic

Sayabalian, Ara; Easton-Garrett, Sheri; Kassabian, Armen; Kunze, Margo B.; Bruce, Melissa Carolyn

A robust and comprehensive infection control plan in a senior living community is a must. Delirium manifestations of Covid-19 and or Urinary Tract Infections, may be confused or misdiagnosed with dementia symptoms in memory care residents. A robust incontinence care program is a key pillar of infection control to reduce symptoms causing hospitalization. Misdiagnosis, transfer infections, acute treatment dementia challenges, worsening incontinence are all risks of residents being hospitalized. A comprehensive incontinence assessment, plan, and education program are all paramount to seeing a reduction in hospitalizations and misdiagnosis of Covid-19 and other symptoms.