Following much COVID-19 testing, Life Care Center of Copper Basin in Ducktown received the last of its tests back Thursday, June 11 and found that all residents and associates had tested negative for the virus.
“We are so thankful for these results, but we remain vigilant,” said Josh Lee, executive director at the facility. “We would like to thank our residents and families for their continued efforts in keeping our community safe. I would especially like to thank our hero associates for their daily efforts. I don’t think anyone could have imagined how this unseen enemy would impact our world, but our associates have continued to keep their spirits high. They have continued to follow the ever-changing guidelines and have continuously provided services and encouragement to our residents – going above and beyond as they always have.”
Director of Nursing Margie Ray added, “I would like to thank our team for their continued dedication and hard work. Everything has taken the whole team working together to accomplish one common goal.”
The facility is continuing to monitor and follow the guidelines provided by the Centers for Medicaid & Medicare Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state and local health departments concerning COVID-19. These include screening associates when they arrive for work, practicing proper hand hygiene and using personal protective equipment.
The center also continues to follow the guidelines placing restrictions on the entrance of visitors, family members and vendors. However, the negative test results bring the facility one step closer to meeting the requirements for in-person visitation released by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee Wednesday, June 10.
At this time, the center’s staff is continuing to facilitate telecommunications for residents’ family members and friends through applications such as FaceTime and Skype. They are also continuing to encourage window visits.
“It’s been a journey, but the residents are doing a marvelous job, and we’re so proud to have them all as part of our facility family,” Lee said.