Arnprior’s Grove rare instance of LTC home without COVID-19

ARNPRIOR – Enhanced COVID-19 testing finds no cases at the Grove Nursing Home in Arnprior.

“In response to the Ontario government’s directive to proactively test all long-term care residents and staff for COVID-19, the Grove Nursing Home’s results have come back negative,” Arnprior Regional Health (ARH) communications manager Melissa McDermott released in a statement today (May 11). “Last week, under the guidance of the Renfrew County and District Health Unit (RCDHU), a total of 79 staff members and 56 residents were swabbed by ARH’s Infection Prevention and Control Team and the Occupational Health and Safety Team.”

The swabs were processed by the Eastern Ontario Regional Laboratory Association.

“It is great to see that all those residing and working at The Grove have tested negative, however, we can never be complacent and must remain vigilant,” RCDHU acting chief medical officer Dr. Rob Cushman said.

As per Ontario Health’s direction, the surveillance testing of all residents and staff was rolled out regionally based on risk level. The Grove Nursing Home was categorized as low risk and as a result, the enhanced testing was implemented locally on May 6 and May 7.

“We are pleased with the results of the recent surveillance and that to date, we have not had a positive COVID-19 case at ARH,” ARH President Eric Hanna, President said. “I want to recognize the continued diligence of our Grove Team who has taken every precaution possible to keep the virus out of the home. The COVID-19 risk, however, remains high and it is imperative that we stay the course and continue to do what is necessary to protect our residents and staff.”

The Grove Nursing Home will not make any changes to the existing restrictions and preventative measures in place based on the directives and guidelines set by the Ontario government. This includes:

• The no visitor policy
• Active screening at the entrance
• Universal masking for staff
• Enhanced cleaning and sanitation practices
• Physical distancing and reduced group sizes for resident activities

“Our staff have been incredibly dedicated and vigilant to follow every guideline and policy to protect our residents from COVID-19 – and this will not change,” Grove director of care Judith Gilchrist said. “I would also like to recognize the integral role our resident’s families have played supporting our team and adapting to some of the more difficult restrictions, like our temporary visitor policy.”