Resident Families

Residents, Staff, Families and Friends,

BLHCC remains in outbreak status. One positive staff was identified this week during outbreak testing. We will complete outbreak testing of the staff and residents who had close contact with the positive individual weekly until no new cases are discovered for 14 days. Not all residents or staff will need to test. Masks continue to be REQUIRED.

Residents who test positive for COVID will be placed on precautions for a minimum of 10 days, any days beyond that will be determined by nursing based on symptoms and severity of illness. Residents who have respiratory symptoms will be placed in droplet precautions until symptoms improve and covid/flu tests are negative.

Staff who test positive will need to follow out of work guidelines per facility policy – five days from positive test date or symptom onset. Direct questions to Crystal or Shyann.

Refrain from visiting if you are ill and to wear a mask whenever you are having any respiratory symptoms for any reason (example: allergies). COVID-19 displays itself, most commonly, as a cold, sinus irritation or allergies. Wear a mask even if symptoms are minor.

Outbreak Information:

While in outbreak – MASKS are required to enter the building.
Residents must wear masks while out of their rooms (activities, travel throughout the building).
Residents with high risk exposures are encouraged NOT to go out to nonessential appointments/gatherings.
Residents that are positive for COVID-19 are in quarantine for at least 10 days.
After being diagnosed with COVID-19 and recovering, wear your mask for an additional 14 days after quarantine is over.
Residents who are in quarantine may still have visitors however, VISITING is a HAZARD TO YOUR HEALTH AND WE DO NOT ADVISE IT. If you choose to visit someone who is in quarantine you will need to wear a blue surgical mask, face shield, gown, and gloves before entering the room. Staff can assist you to ensure you are wearing everything correctly.
Visiting should primarily occur in resident rooms.
Sanitize your hands upon entering the building and before and after eating/drinking or assisting your loved one.

DO NOT VISIT IF YOU ARE FEELING ILL or have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days!

If you have questions or concerns, please call the facility.

We will send additional updates as needed.

Mark Rust Kendra Hiles Crystal Gitter

Administrator Admin in Training Director of Nursing

1/14/26

Residents, Staff, Families and Friends,

BLHCC is currently in outbreak status. Five positive residents and two staff. We will complete outbreak testing weekly until no new cases are discovered for 14 days. Masks continue to be REQUIRED. Watch the signs at all the entrances for any changes.

Staff who test positive will need to follow out of work guidelines per facility policy – five days from positive test date or symptom onset. Direct questions to Crystal or Shyann.

We cannot emphasis enough how important it is to refrain from visiting if you are ill and to wear a mask whenever you are having any respiratory symptoms for any reason (example: allergies). COVID-19 displays itself, most commonly, as a cold, sinus irritation or allergies. Wear a mask even if symptoms are minor.

Outbreak Information:

An outbreak means there is at least one positive resident or a group of 3 or more positive residents/staff that can be found to have contact with each other.

While in outbreak – MASKS are required to enter the building.
Residents must wear masks while out of their rooms (activities, travel throughout the building).
Residents with high risk exposures are encouraged NOT to go out to nonessential appointments/gatherings.
Residents that are positive for COVID-19 are in quarantine for at least 10 days.
After being diagnosed with COVID-19 and recovering, wear your mask for an additional 14 days after quarantine is over.
Residents who are in quarantine may still have visitors however, VISITING is a HAZARD TO YOUR HEALTH AND WE DO NOT ADVISE IT. If you choose to visit someone who is in quarantine you will need to wear a blue surgical mask, face shield, gown, and gloves before entering the room. Staff can assist you to ensure you are wearing everything correctly.
Visiting should primarily occur in resident rooms.
Sanitize your hands upon entering the building and before and after eating/drinking or assisting your loved one.

DO NOT VISIT IF YOU ARE FEELING ILL or have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days!

If you have questions or concerns, please call the facility. Our staff can answer any questions you have or direct you to someone who can.

We will send additional updates as needed.

Thank you!

Mark Rust Kendra Hiles Crystal Gitter

Administrator Admin in Training Director of Nursing

Residents, Staff, Families and Friends,

We will complete one more round of outbreak testing for all residents on Monday December 29^th. Staff are also required to test on Monday when they arrive for their shift. If everyone comes back negative our outbreak cycle will be over. However, due to the high level of respiratory illness throughout our community, masks will continue to be required. Watch the signs at all the entrances for any changes to the masking requirements.

Residents who test positive for COVID will be placed on precautions for a minimum of five days, any days beyond that will be determined by nursing based on symptoms and severity of illness. Residents who have respiratory symptoms will be placed in droplet precautions until symptoms improve and covid/flu tests are negative.

Staff who test positive will need to follow out of work guidelines per facility policy – five days from positive test date or symptom onset. Direct questions to Crystal or Shyann.

Outbreak Information:

An outbreak means there is at least one positive resident or a group of 3 or more positive residents/staff that can be found to have contact with each other.

While in outbreak – MASKS are required to enter the building.
Residents must wear masks while out of their rooms (activities, travel throughout the building).
Residents that are positive for COVID-19 are in quarantine for at least 5 days.
After being diagnosed with COVID-19 and recovering, wear your mask for an additional 14 days after quarantine is over.
Residents who are in quarantine may still have visitors however, VISITING is a HAZARD TO YOUR HEALTH AND WE DO NOT ADVISE IT. If you choose to visit someone who is in quarantine you will need to wear a blue surgical mask, face shield, gown, and gloves before entering the room. Staff can assist you to ensure you are wearing everything correctly.
Visiting should primarily occur in resident rooms.
Sanitize your hands upon entering the building and before and after eating/drinking or assisting your loved one.

DO NOT VISIT IF YOU ARE FEELING ILL or have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days!

If you have questions or concerns, please call the facility. Our staff can answer any questions you have or direct you to someone who can.

Don’t let the news of continued masking bring you down, there is hope and happiness abound. We have hosted carolers and treat makers, dug out our ugly sweaters and visited with Santa. Residents have enjoyed holiday parties and outings to see the Christmas lights. Our staff have participated in gift giving and dress up days. (Check out Facebook for all the joyous news.)

We are blessed and thankful for our staff, residents and their families every day, but especially during the holidays. You truly make BLHCC what it is, a HOME. Merry Christmas.

Wishing you a safe and healthy holiday season!

Mark Rust Kendra Hiles Crystal Gitter

Administrator Admin in Training Director of Nursing

Residents, Staff, Families and Friends,

Over the weekend, we discovered a resident who tested positive for COVID-19. We will complete outbreak testing for all residents today and will test again on Wednesday (12/17) and Friday (12/19). After the first three rounds of testing are complete, we will transition to weekly testing, most likely on Mondays. Staff are also required to test on these days when they arrive for their shift.

Residents who test positive for COVID will be placed on precautions for a minimum of five days, any days beyond that will be determined by nursing based on symptoms and severity of illness.

Staff who test positive will need to follow out of work guidelines per facility policy – five days from positive test date or symptom onset. Direct questions to Crystal or Shyann.

We cannot emphasis enough how important it is to refrain from visiting if you are ill and to wear a mask whenever you are having any respiratory symptoms for any reason (example: allergies). COVID-19 displays itself, most commonly, as a cold or allergies. Wear a mask even if symptoms are minor.

When you walk into the building, you will see signs that will let you know whether masks are required or optional. Due to outbreak status, MASKING IS REQUIRED every time you enter the building. Watch the signs for any changes.

COVID-19 Outbreak Information:

An outbreak means there is at least one positive resident or a group of 3 or more positive residents/staff that can be found to have contact with each other.

While in outbreak – MASKS are required to enter the building.
Residents must wear masks while out of their rooms (activities, travel throughout the building).
Residents that are positive for COVID-19 are in quarantine for at least 5 days.
After being diagnosed with COVID-19 and recovering, wear your mask for an additional 14 days after quarantine is over.
Residents who are in quarantine may still have visitors however, VISITING is a HAZARD TO YOUR HEALTH AND WE DO NOT ADVISE IT. If you choose to visit someone who is in quarantine you will need to wear a blue surgical mask, face shield, gown, and gloves before entering the room. Staff can assist you to ensure you are wearing everything correctly.
Visiting should primarily occur in resident rooms.
Sanitize your hands upon entering the building and before and after eating/drinking or assisting your loved one.

DO NOT VISIT IF YOU ARE FEELING ILL or have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days!

We will send out additional updates if they are needed. Please watch signage as you enter the building for further guidance on masking and outbreak status changes.

If you have questions or concerns, please call the facility. Our staff can answer any questions you have or direct you to someone who can.

Thank you!

Mark Rust Kendra Hiles Crystal Gitter

Administrator Admin in Training Director of Nursing

BLHCC Dress Up Days!!

✨ Monday, Dec. 15 — Merry & Bright Color Day

Wear your brightest holiday colors — red, green, gold, silver, blue.

🧣 Tuesday, Dec. 16 — Plaid Day

Wear anything plaid — shirts, scarves, hats, blankets, flannel patterns.

🍭 Wednesday, Dec. 17 — Candy Cane / Peppermint Day

Wear red & white, stripes, or peppermint-themed clothing.

🎅 Thursday, Dec. 18 — Santa, Elves & Reindeer Day

Dress as Santa, Mrs. Claus, elves, or reindeer — or simply wear holiday character shirts.

🎁 Friday, Dec. 19 — Holiday Pajama Day

Wear holiday pajamas, flannel pants, or festive socks.

Thank you for helping make this season bright for our residents!

Reminder: If you have not RSVP’d for the Christmas Party, please call Lyn at 320-833-5364 Ext. 36

Loved ones name and total of guests. Thank you!

Click here for a copy of the invitation.

Ugly Sweater Christmas Party
Saturday, December 13
2:00–4:00 p.m.

For future invitations, if you would prefer to receive the invitation by email, please contact Lyn at atotenhagen@blhcc.org with:

Your name
Your loved one’s name
A note letting us know if you would like to receive email invitations for future parties instead of mailed copies.

Happy Holidays!

Analyn Totenhagen- Activity Director

BLHCC VISITOR, DINING & HOLIDAY SEASON INFECTION CONTROL NOTICE

Buffalo Lake Healthcare Center welcomes families, friends, and loved ones to visit and dine with residents. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone — especially during cold, flu and COVID season. Please review the following guidelines.

Visitor & Guest Dining Guidelines

Number of Visitors
- Residents may have unlimited visitors.
- However, the number of guest meals prepared may be limited based on time, space, and dietary staffing.
Meal Reservations (Non-Holiday Days)
- Please call 320-833-5364 and ask for Medical Records or notify the Kitchen to reserve a meal.
- Reservations must be made at least 2 hours before the scheduled meal time.
Holiday Meal Reservations
- For holidays when BLHCC is providing the meal, please notify us in advance so we can plan accordingly.
- Holiday dining is limited to 3 guests per resident.
Dining Locations
- Visitors may dine in the resident’s room.
- Open dining areas may be reserved through Medical Records on a first-come, first-served basis.
Bringing Your Own Food
- Guests are welcome to bring outside food to enjoy with their loved one.
Supplies Provided
- Coffee, cups, plates, utensils, and similar items can be provided upon request.
Meal Service Times
- Ordered meals will be served at the regularly scheduled mealtime.
Guest Meal Payment
- Guest meals are $8.00 each.
- Payments should be made to kitchen staff the day of or before the visit.
- Spouses of residents are not charged for meals.

Pets
- Pets are not allowed in the dining areas.

Infection Control Reminders

To protect the safety of all residents:

DO NOT VISIT if you are feeling sick or have tested positive for COVID-19 within the last 14 days.
At each entrance is a sign that informs everyone if masks are required or optional. Please ensure you comply with what the sign indicates.
Indoor visiting increases the risk of spreading illness— when REQUIRED wear a mask and remain with your own family/table group.
When REQUIRED – Masks must be worn at all times except when actively eating or drinking.
Please sanitize your hands upon entering the building and before/after eating or assisting your loved one.

A Final Note

We are honored to welcome you into the facility during the holiday season. We know how meaningful these visits are. Illness can be especially devastating to the individuals we care for, and we sincerely appreciate your help in following these important guidelines.

Thank you for helping us keep BLHCC safe, healthy, and connected.

Scroll down ↓ for Christmas Party Information, Thanksgiving and Christmas Dress up Days

Ugly Sweater Christmas Party
Saturday, December 13
2:00–4:00 p.m.

We invite families to join us for an afternoon of holiday cheer, treats, music, and festive fun during our Ugly Sweater Christmas Party.

To help your loved one participate, we kindly ask families to send in a plain sweater or shirt for residents to decorate during our Ugly Sweater Decorating Activity, December 10th. We will provide all the craft supplies—glitter, garland, bows, and more—so residents can create their own wonderfully “ugly” holiday masterpiece.

Click here for a copy of the invitation.
(You will also receive a printed copy in the mail, feel free to share this information with other family members and coordinate your RSVP .)

If you would prefer to receive the invitation by email, please contact Lyn at atotenhagen@blhcc.org with:

Your name
Your loved one’s name
A note letting us know if you would like to receive email invitations for future parties instead of mailed copies.

Thank you for helping make this season bright for our residents!

Analyn Totenhagen- Activity Director

Dress Up Week- November 24 – 28

🛏 Monday – Pajama Day

Wear your favorite pajamas or slippers!
Get cozy before the Thanksgiving feast.

🎩 Tuesday – Silly Hat or Headband Day

Wear a funny hat or a turkey headband!
Let’s see who can make everyone laugh.

🧦 Wednesday – Crazy Socks Day

Show off your silly or colorful socks!
Let’s see who has the wildest pair.

🍁 Thursday – Turkey Color Day

Wear Thanksgiving colors — orange, red, brown, or gold!
Let’s fill the halls with fall colors.

🏈 Friday – Favorite Football Team Day

Wear your favorite team’s shirt or colors!
Show your team spirit!

Let’s have a fun and festive week together!

🎄 DRESS-UP WEEK: December 15–19

✨ Monday, Dec. 15 — Merry & Bright Color Day

Wear your brightest holiday colors — red, green, gold, silver, blue.

🧣 Tuesday, Dec. 16 — Plaid Day

Wear anything plaid — shirts, scarves, hats, blankets, flannel patterns.

🍭 Wednesday, Dec. 17 — Candy Cane / Peppermint Day

Wear red & white, stripes, or peppermint-themed clothing.

🎅 Thursday, Dec. 18 — Santa, Elves & Reindeer Day

Dress as Santa, Mrs. Claus, elves, or reindeer — or simply wear holiday character shirts.

🎁 Friday, Dec. 19 — Holiday Pajama Day

Wear holiday pajamas, flannel pants, or festive socks.

Dear Families, Residents, and Staff,

We hope this message finds you and your loved ones in good health. As we continue to navigate through the ongoing efforts to protect our communities, we are writing to inform you of an important update regarding COVID-19 vaccinations.

In alignment with the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID-19 vaccinations will be offered to individuals over the age of 65 in April 2025. The CDC recommends dosing 6 months after the last dosing. We completed vaccines in October of 2024 and are coming due for the follow up dosing. This practice follows the CDC’s recommendations to prioritize older adults, as they are at a higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.

We encourage all eligible individuals to consider receiving the vaccine to help protect their health and the health of those around them. The vaccination will be administered in accordance with CDC guidelines to eligible residents in April. We have consents on file for most residents and will be contacting those residents that consent is needed.

Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions or if you need additional information. Buffalo Lake Healthcare is committed to keeping you informed and ensuring that everyone in our community has access to the resources they need to stay safe.

Thank you for your continued support in keeping our community healthy.

Kendra Hiles BSN, PHN, IP, LALD, DON
Buffalo Lake Healthcare Center
703 W Yellowstone Tr. PO Box 368
Buffalo Lake, MN 55314
#320-833-5364 Ext. 14
khiles@blhcc.org

Residents, Staff, Families and Friends,

If you have ANY respiratory symptoms, you MUST wear a mask upon entering the facility. This includes allergies, a scratchy throat, cold/flu symptoms, ill family members. ANYTHING that could possibly turn into more – WEAR A MASK.

With all of that being said – Masking is now optional due to the low rate of influenza/COVID in our county. We also currently have a healthy building and want to keep it this way. Hence the first paragraph of this letter.

When you walk into the building, you will see signs that will let you know whether masks are required or optional. Currently: MASKING IS OPTIONAL. Watch the signs for any changes.

PLEASE choose to wear a mask if you have any respiratory symptoms or have someone in your home that could be ill.

We appreciate everyone’s cooperation these past few months with masking and other infection control protocols. Our facility has COVID-19 rapid test kits available for anyone that needs one. They can be found by the main entrance and in the employee break room. If you have any questions regarding this memo or other infection control topics, please contact Kendra Hiles, Director of Nursing or any charge nurse.

Thank you!

Mark Rust Kendra Hiles

Administrator Director of Nursing

Residents, Staff, Families and Friends,

We completed COVID-19 outbreak testing this past Monday with one case found. We will test again on Monday Nov 25^th and Dec 2^nd. We will continue to be in outbreak and masks are still required.

We want to welcome you for visiting and fun especially during this holiday season but first we must remind you of the infection control protocols we have in place.

Currently:

DO NOT VISIT if you have ANY symptoms of illness.
Masks are required for everyone AT ALL TIMES.
If you are eating/drinking with your loved one you may remove your mask to eat/drink but DO NOT visit if you have any signs of illness.
When visiting your loved one, try to avoid other residents and give ample space between your group and others.
Visits in the resident rooms are the safest. Communal dining and activities are allowed; wear your mask at all times and keep your distance between yourself and others.
If you have not yet received your COVID-19, flu or other recommended vaccines – do so ASAP. Vaccines continue to be one of the most effective ways to avoid severe symptoms or death from various illnesses. If you need assistance for where to go to receive your vaccines, reach out to Kendra Hiles, DON.

DO NOT VISIT IF YOU ARE FEELING ILL or have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days!

Indoor visiting increases the possibility of spreading illness to others – wear your mask and stay within your own family or table group, keeping a safe distance apart from other groups.
Wear your mask at all times when you are not eating or drinking.
Sanitize your hands upon entering the building and before and after eating/drinking or assisting your loved one.

We are very fortunate to be able to welcome you into our facility during the holiday season. We know how important it is for everyone to see their loved ones. We also know that illness can be devastating to those we care for, please follow all the guidelines listed above.

In other news our facility just finished our annual state survey, and we are proud to say there were NO deficiencies from the Department of Health. The Fire Marshall found minor issues that we have already corrected or are in the process of fixing. We have our amazing and dedicated staff to thank for this wonderful news.

We are thankful for you this Thanksgiving!

Mark Rust- Administrator Kendra Hiles- Director of Nursing

November 12th, 2024

Residents, Staff, Families and Friends,

We completed outbreak testing for staff and residents yesterday with one positive case discovered. We will test again on November 18th and 25th.

We cannot emphasis enough how important it is to not visit if you are ill and to wear a mask whenever you are having any respiratory symptoms for any reason (example: allergies). COVID-19 displays itself, most commonly, as a cold or allergies. Wear a mask even if symptoms are minor.

COVID-19 Outbreak Information:

An outbreak means there is at least one positive resident or a group of 3 or more positive residents/staff that can be found to have contact with each other.

While in outbreak – MASKS are required to enter the building.
Residents must wear masks while out of their rooms (activities, travel throughout the building).
Residents that are positive for COVID-19 are in quarantine for at least 10 days.
After being diagnosed with COVID-19 and recovering wear your mask for 10 days after quarantine is over.
Residents who are in quarantine may still have visitors however, VISITING is a HAZARD TO YOUR HEALTH AND WE DO NOT ADVISE IT. If you choose to visit someone who is in quarantine you will need to wear a blue surgical mask, face shield, gown, and gloves before entering the room. Staff can assist you to ensure you are wearing everything correctly.
Residents are dining in their rooms as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread.
Indoor visits should primarily occur in resident rooms. When the weather is nice we encourage outdoor visitation whenever possible.
Sanitize your hands upon entering the building and before and after eating/drinking or assisting your loved one.

DO NOT VISIT IF YOU ARE FEELING ILL or have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days.

Watch signage as you enter the building for further guidance on masking and outbreak status changes. We will plan to send out an update after our last round of testing. This will include information for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Thank you!

Mark Rust Kendra Hiles

Administrator Director of Nursing

_______________________________________________________________________

November 5th, 2024

Residents, Staff, Families and Friends,

We completed our most recent round of outbreak testing today with ALL negative results. We will test again next Monday (11/11).

COVID-19 Outbreak Information:

An outbreak means there is at least one positive resident or a group of 3 or more positive residents/staff that can be found to have contact with each other.

While in outbreak – MASKS are required to enter the building.
Residents must wear masks while out of their rooms (activities, travel throughout the building).
Residents that are positive for COVID-19 are in quarantine for at least 10 days.
After being diagnosed with COVID-19 and recovering wear your mask for 10 days after quarantine is over.
Residents who are in quarantine may still have visitors however, VISITING is a HAZARD TO YOUR HEALTH AND WE DO NOT ADVISE IT. If you choose to visit someone who is in quarantine you will need to wear a blue surgical mask, face shield, gown, and gloves before entering the room. Staff can assist you to ensure you are wearing everything correctly.
Residents are dining in their rooms as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread.
Indoor visits should primarily occur in resident rooms. When the weather is nice, we encourage outdoor visitation whenever possible.
Sanitize your hands upon entering the building and before and after eating/drinking or assisting your loved one.

DO NOT VISIT IF YOU ARE FEELING ILL or have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days.

Watch signage as you enter the building for further guidance on masking and outbreak status changes.

Thank you!

Mark Rust Kendra Hiles

Administrator Director of Nursing

________________________________________________________________________

October 21st, 2024

Residents, Staff, Families and Friends,

The last few days, we discovered staff and residents positive for COVID-19. We have completed one round of outbreak testing and will complete all staff and resident testing again on Wednesday (10/23) and Friday (10/25). After the first three rounds of testing are complete, we can go to one time per week testing until no new cases for 14 days.

COVID-19 Outbreak Information:

An outbreak means there is at least one positive resident or a group of 3 or more positive residents/staff that can be found to have contact with each other.

While in outbreak – MASKS are required to enter the building.
Residents must wear masks while out of their rooms (activities, travel throughout the building).
Residents that are positive for COVID-19 are in quarantine for at least 10 days.
After being diagnosed with COVID-19 and recovering wear your mask for 10 days after quarantine is over.
Residents who are in quarantine may still have visitors however, VISITING is a HAZARD TO YOUR HEALTH AND WE DO NOT ADVISE IT. If you choose to visit someone who is in quarantine you will need to wear a blue surgical mask, face shield, gown, and gloves before entering the room. Staff can assist you to ensure you are wearing everything correctly.
Residents are dining in their rooms as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread.
Indoor visits should primarily occur in resident rooms. When the weather is nice we encourage outdoor visitation whenever possible.
Sanitize your hands upon entering the building and before and after eating/drinking or assisting your loved one.

DO NOT VISIT IF YOU ARE FEELING ILL or have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days!

We will send out additional updates if they are needed. Please watch signage as you enter the building for further guidance on masking and outbreak status changes.

If you have questions or concerns, please call the facility. Our staff can answer any questions you have or direct you to someone who can.

Thank you!

Mark Rust Kendra Hiles

Administrator Director of Nursing

__________________________________________________________________________

September 5th, 2024

Residents, Staff, Families and Friends,

We have completed five rounds of COVID outbreak testing and found NO positive cases. With these results we are “out of outbreak” status. Due to the number of cases still present in Renville County, masks continue to be REQUIRED at BLHCC. If you have any respiratory symptoms, please refrain from visiting. COVID-19 displays itself, most commonly, as a cold or allergies. Outdoor visitation continues to be encouraged when the weather is nice.

MASKING IS REQUIRED every time you enter the building.

We appreciate everyone’s continued support of our infection control practices. Long term care facilities are one of the last remaining entities in the state with such stringent rules and regulations for COVID, however; we also provide care for one of the most vulnerable populations of people (your loved ones and friends). Your support and understanding is what keeps our residents safe and makes it easier for our dedicated staff to do their best work.

Thank you!

Mark Rust Kendra Hiles

Administrator Director of Nursing

August 26, 2024

_______________________________________________________

Residents, Staff, Families, and Friends,

We have completed three rounds of COVID-19 outbreak testing and have no additional positive cases at this time. We will complete outbreak testing again on Wednesday, August 28^th, and September 4^th. Please postpone your visit if you have any respiratory symptoms. COVID-19 displays itself, most commonly, as a cold or allergies. Wear a mask even if symptoms are minor. If you choose to come to visit; only visit in your loved one’s room and all parties should wear a mask. Outdoor visitation is strongly encouraged.

MASKING IS REQUIRED every time you enter the building.

COVID-19 Outbreak Information:

An outbreak means there is at least one positive resident or a group of 3 or more positive residents/staff that can be found to have contact with each other.

· While in outbreak – MASKS are required to enter the building.

· Residents must wear masks while out of their rooms.

· Residents who are positive for COVID-19 are in quarantine for at least 10 days.

· After being diagnosed with COVID-19 and recovering wear your mask for 10 days after quarantine is over.

· Residents who are in quarantine may still have visitors however, VISITING is a HAZARD TO YOUR HEALTH AND WE DO NOT ADVISE IT. If you choose to visit someone who is in quarantine you will need to wear a blue surgical mask, face shield, gown, and gloves before entering the room. Staff can assist you to ensure you are wearing everything correctly.

· Indoor visits should primarily occur in resident rooms. When the weather is nice we encourage outdoor visitation whenever possible.

· Sanitize your hands upon entering the building and before and after eating/drinking or assisting your loved one.

· DO NOT VISIT IF YOU ARE FEELING ILL or have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days!

Thank you!

Mark Rust
Administrator

Kendra Hiles
Director of Nursing

8/19/24

Residents, Families, Staff;

We are currently in outbreak status. We discovered a positive resident over the weekend. Masking was already required due to high levels of COVID-19 throughout the state and will continue to be required through the outbreak. Staff should complete a COVID test on Monday 8/19 or when they return to work. All residents will be tested due to the outbreak. We will continue testing for COVID-19 throughout the coming weeks. We must have 2 negative testing rounds before we stop routine testing. We will continue to keep you updated via signs and messages throughout the outbreak.

Please postpone your visit if you have ANY respiratory symptoms. If you must visit, wear a mask, and practice good infection control. Visiting outside is always a great option.

As we look toward the Fall, we also think of flu season approaching. Please consider getting your fall COVID-19 vaccine, seasonal flu shot and if eligible the RSV vaccine. All of these respiratory illnesses are very serious in our elderly population, and everyone has an obligation to do all we can to protect those that are the most vulnerable.

Thank you!

Mark Rust, Administrator
Kendra Hiles, Director of Nursing

_________________________________________________________________

Residents, Staff, Families and Friends,

We have completed multiple rounds of COVID testing and have received ALL negative test results the last two consecutive weeks. This means we are considered to be out of outbreak and can resume normal dining and activities.

MASKING IS optional at this time and the signs on the doors have been updated.

The duration and severity of the last outbreak was the worst we have ever seen. Help us prevent this from happening by following good infection control whenever you are here.

We ask that you refrain from visiting if you are ill. If you MUST visit and have any respiratory symptoms – wear a mask. COVID-19 displays itself, most commonly, as a cold or allergies. EVERYONE entering the building must wear a mask even if symptoms are minor.

We extend our gratitude to our families and residents for their patients and understanding during this last outbreak. We appreciate all who followed our protocols to help prevent further spread. To our staff; thank you for all the extra work and effort you put in daily to stop the spread and keep others safe. You are all appreciated!

It’s supposed to get pretty warm the next few days. Stay hydrated and cool!

A great week to make masking optional again 😊

Mark Rust Kendra Hiles

Administrator Director of Nursing

_______________________________________________

Keeping Residents Safe – Use of Enhanced Barrier Precautions

Dear Residents, Families, Friends, Volunteers and Staff:

You will notice new signs on some doors that say “Enhanced Barrier Precautions”.

Staff who provide high contact resident care activities (dressing, bathing, transferring, provide hygiene, change linen, change briefs/assist with toileting, device care, wound care) will be wearing gowns and gloves more often. We’re doing this based on new recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and regulations from CMS, to protect our residents and staff from germs that can cause serious infections and are hard to treat.

You may have heard these germs called multidrug-resistant organisms or MDROs in the news. Studies have shown that more than 50% of nursing home residents have these germs on or in their body, especially in places where the skin is broken, such as wounds or insertion sites of medical devices like feeding tubes or catheters. Most of the time people never know they are carrying these germs but under certain conditions they can enter the body and cause serious infections.

Fortunately, there are many things we can do to keep these germs from spreading, but we need your help! Two important practices are:

Cleaning our hands. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer can kill these germs and keep us from spreading them with our hands. This is why we remind residents, visitors and staff to frequently clean your hands.
Using gowns and gloves. Since we can’t wash our clothes between caring for residents, gowns and gloves help keep these germs from getting on our clothes and spreading to others when we are having close contact with residents. This is why you might see staff wearing a gown and gloves when we are performing transfers or other activities involving a lot of contact with a resident. Just because we are wearing a gown and gloves doesn’t mean that a resident is carrying one of these germs. We also wear them to protect residents who might be more vulnerable to developing a serious infection if exposed to these germs. We will also wear them if we expect a care activity to be messy, like if we are changing a dressing on a wound.

To support these practices, you will see more carts to hold clean gowns and gloves, and trash cans so we can change gowns and gloves between residents. You will also see more signs to help remind staff when they should be wearing gowns and gloves.

We are always happy to answer any questions you might have about actions we are taking to protect our residents and staff and appreciate your support! Please contact me with additional questions at: 320-833-5364

Sincerely,

Kendra Hiles, BSN, PHN, IP, LALD, DON

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COVID Update for 6/12/2024

Residents, Staff, Families and Friends,

We have completed 3 rounds of COVID testing and have discovered multiple staff and resident’s positive for COVID. Most residents are doing well. Some are using oxygen for comfort while others have symptoms similar to the common cold. We will complete outbreak testing again on Monday June 17^th and the 24th. Do not come to visit if you have any respiratory symptoms. COVID-19 displays itself, most commonly, as a cold or allergies. Wear a mask even if symptoms are minor.

Visiting is still open. If you choose to come to visit; only visit in your loved one’s room and all parties should wear a mask. Outdoor visitation is strongly encouraged.

If you arrive to visit your loved one and they are in quarantine, we encourage you to come back at a different time. Visiting anyone who is ill poses a hazard to your health. If you choose to continue with your visit; you MUST wear a gown, gloves, mask and face shield to visit anyone in quarantine.

MASKING IS REQUIRED every time you enter the building.

FATHERS DAY – With Father’s Day approaching, do NOT bring large groups at one time as you will need to stay in your resident’s room to visit or visit outside. The rooms get quite snug if there are more than 4-5 people visiting at one time. Our Father’s Day celebration has been postponed until July 12^th. Please click HERE for more details. We will keep you posted if there is any changes before that date.

COVID-19 Outbreak Information:

An outbreak means there is at least one positive resident or a group of 3 or more positive residents/staff that can be found to have contact with each other.

While in outbreak – MASKS are required to enter the building.
Residents must wear masks while out of their rooms.
There is no open dining or activities where food is served at this time.
Residents that are positive for COVID-19 are in quarantine for at least 10 days.
After being diagnosed with COVID-19 and recovering wear your mask for 10 days after quarantine is over.
Residents who are in quarantine may still have visitors however, VISITING is a HAZARD TO YOUR HEALTH AND WE DO NOT ADVISE IT. If you choose to visit someone who is in quarantine you will need to wear a blue surgical mask, face shield, gown, and gloves before entering the room. Staff can assist you to ensure you are wearing everything correctly.
Indoor visits should primarily occur in resident rooms. When the weather is nice, we encourage outdoor visitation whenever possible.
Sanitize your hands upon entering the building and before and after eating/drinking or assisting your loved one.

DO NOT VISIT IF YOU ARE FEELING ILL or have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days!

TO OUR STAFF – Thank you for all the extra hours you have worked and the amount of stress you have endured to keep our residents cared for and safe. You are appreciated!

Thank you!

Mark Rust Kendra Hiles

Administrator Director of Nursing

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COVID Update for 6/6/2024

Download our COVID-19 update PDF. (Opens in a new window)

Greetings Residents, Family, Friends,

BLHCC will be completing a county wide large-scale emergency drill on May 8th starting around 5:30pm. The drill will commence by 10pm. Residents should be minimally affected. No activity will take place in any resident rooms after 7:30pm.

The scenario is an active threat event at the healthcare center. All residents, staff, and visitors should not be carrying anything that could be considered a weapon during the drill. The healthcare center is always a gun free environment. For the drill, we also ask that there are no pocketknives, tools/utensils or other objects that would be a weapon in anyone’s possession during the drill.

This is for the safety of all who are responding.

This drill is NOT open to the public. If you choose to come and visit your resident during this time, it will be easier for you to enter our East Asst living entrance, door #19 or West Entrance by the therapy department, door #2. Parking will be scarce and local law enforcement may ask why you are here before letting you into the BLHCC parking spots.
Please help assist us in explaining this drill to your loved one if they have questions prior to the drill. They may hear sounds that are similar to something you would hear at a threat event (yelling, gun shots, various loud noises). They may also see actors that are dressed up to look injured.

No residents are a part of the drill and any volunteers who are assisting with the drill will be clearly marked so there is no confusion.
You will receive a text from our alert system on the night of the drill as a reminder.

If you have any concerns, call or text Shyann Topel, BLHCC Safety Director (320)-905-7047
Thank you!
Shyann

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POLICY FOR VISITORS/GUESTS DINING WITH A RESIDENT

Created: 3/7/24

The Buffalo Lake Health Care Center welcomes visitors/guests to come and dine with their family member or loved one. The following guidelines should be followed:

Guidelines:

The facility will not limit the number of visitors a resident may have, but the facility may limit the number of meals they can prepare for visitors related to time, space, and staffing in the dietary department.
Visitors should call the facility (320-833-5364) and ask for medical records or notify the kitchen to reserve a meal 2 hours before serving time on days that are not holidays.
For Holiday’s we ask visitors/guests to inform the facility of their intention to dine with a resident 2 weeks ahead of time. This is to allow the facility time to plan for availability of dining space and have adequate supply available. Holiday dining is limited to 3 guests per resident when food is being provided by BLHCC kitchen.
Visitors can dine in the resident’s room if they choose, or reservations can be made with Medical Records for specific open area of the building on a first come first serve basis.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food for the meal to eat with their loved one.
The facility can provide coffee, cups, glasses, utensils, plates, etc. You will need to request these items as needed.
The facility will serve ordered meals at the scheduled time for that meal.
Visitors will need to pay $8.00 per meal, this should be paid to the kitchen staff the day of or before.

New price for meals starting March 15, 2024 will be $8.00 for any guest meals.

** There is no meal charge for a spouse of a resident

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Residents, Staff, Families and Friends,

We have completed all rounds of COVID-19 outbreak testing with no additional cases found. However, mask are still required in our building due to the county transmission rate of COVID_19 and other respiratory illnesses.

We want to welcome you in for visiting and fun especially during this holiday season but first we must remind you of the infection control protocols we have in place.

When you arrive at the facility signs will tell you If we are in outbreak status and if masks are required.

Currently:

DO NOT VISIT if you have ANY symptoms of illness.
Masks are required for everyone AT ALL TIMES.
If you are eating/drinking with your loved one you may remove your mask to eat/drink but DO NOT visit if you have any signs of illness.
When visiting your loved one, try to avoid other residents and give ample space between your group and others.
Visits in the resident rooms are the safest. Communal dining and activities are allowed; wear your mask at all times and keep your distance between yourself and others.
If you have not yet received your COVID-19, flu or other recommended vaccines – do so ASAP. Vaccines continue to be one of the most effective ways to avoid severe symptoms or death from various illnesses. If you need assistance for where to go to receive your vaccines, reach out to Kendra Hiles, DON.

Holiday Party Sat. Dec. 16^th – Practice Good Infection Control

DO NOT VISIT IF YOU ARE FEELING ILL or have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days!

Indoor visiting increases the possibility of spreading illness to others – wear your mask and stay within your own family or table group, keeping a safe distance apart from other groups.
Wear your mask at all times when you are not eating or drinking.
Sanitize your hands upon entering the building and before and after eating/drinking or assisting your loved one.

Have a blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year to all!

Mark Rust Kendra Hiles

Administrator Director of Nursing

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May 17th, 2023 Residents, Staff, Families and Friends, The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the Minnesota Dept of Health (MDH) released new guidance on May 11th, the end of the public health emergency. The new information allows facilities to make changes to COVID-19 protocols yet remain conscientious of infection control practices that work to keep everyone safe. The lessons we learned through COVID-19 will be carried forward in a way that encompasses resident rights with safety as our number one goal. Updated Guidelines

Do NOT enter the facility if you have COVID-19 or any other respiratory illness, if you’ve been exposed in the last 10 days to someone who is ill with a respiratory illness (COVID-19 or influenza) or if you have symptoms related to a respiratory illness.
Sanitize your hands upon entering the facility and at each loved one’s room.
Wear a surgical mask and visit only in resident rooms if our facility is in outbreak. (Designated by signs at the entrances)
The facility will monitor the risks of respiratory illness within our community and make changes to infection control requirements as the need arises.
Visiting is allowed in locations where residents are comfortable, resident rooms, outside, or in common areas. If a resident is not comfortable with the location, amount of visitors or any other factor their wishes to leave the visit must be respected. You may eat/visit your loved ones during meals and activities if it does not cause your loved one or any other resident discomfort.
COVID-19 and influenza vaccination for staff, volunteers and resident’s must be tracked. There is no longer a vaccination requirement to work in healthcare.
Vaccination education and vaccine administration will continue to be apart of our infection control mitigation efforts.
New admissions will be tested for COVID-19 upon admission. All residents/staff that present with symptoms associated to COVID-19 will be tested immediately and quarantine procedures will be implemented as needed for the length of time designated by the CDC.
COVID-19 outbreak testing will be initiated as needed when an outbreak is identified.
The facility will send out notifications to families, staff, and residents if significant changes are made to protocols or expectations.

We expect additional changes in CDC and MDH guidance as the recovery from the COVID-19 emergency continues. If you need additional resources or have questions about any of the information in today’s letter, please give us a call. 320-833-5364 Mark Rust Kendra Hiles Administrator Director of Nursing ______________________________________________________

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Archived Updates

Click HERE for a PDF copy of 9/24/20 notice Click HERE for September 10 update PDF copy July 24th PDF copy Click HERE for a PDF copy July 13 Click HERE for SignUpGenius step by step instruction Please click HERE for a PDF copyJune19 June 10th Covid Letter COVID19 Testing Resident Consent 052920 COVID 19 Factsheet1 COVID19 Frequently Asked Questions1 COVID19 PCRViralTesting FactSheet 0529201 Click here for May 29, 2020 Updates Download the pdf of this latest document. Download a pdf of our May 8, 2020 Update Download a PDF copy of our April 20th, 2020 Update