COVID-19 Resources
For the health and safety of our patients and our staff, Concord Regional VNA continues to monitor and adapt guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, including:
- Hand-washing before and after patient visits, even if gloves are worn, and during patient care as needed.
- Use and wear of facial protection (cloth or procedure masks, and eye protection).
- Frequent disinfecting of all work surfaces, including equipment used in patients’ homes, electronics and other materials that come into contact during and between patient visits.
We communicate with our staff daily regarding updates to ensure they have the latest information.
What specific procedures have been implemented to keep patients safe?
In addition to the procedures mentioned, as of the end of April, all our personal home services clients, home care patients and community hospice patients have been sent cloth face masks by mail, along with an informational packet with specific guidance on proper use of face masks. All new patients and clients will receive cloth face masks and informational packets from their direct care staff at the time of admission or first home visit.
What additional steps are being taken with patients who have tested positive?
In addition to the procedures listed above, Concord Regional VNA staff who care for a patient with COVID-19 or who are experiencing symptoms, are required to take the following protective measures:
- Wear protective gowns to cover clothing.
- Wear protective gloves, or double-gloving.
- Wear face shields and procedure masks.
Is Concord Regional VNA testing employees for symptoms?
All staff and volunteers who work at 30 Pillsbury Street and the Hospice House are screened before entering the facility, and are also expected to self-monitor for symptoms. To adhere to social distancing guidelines and minimize contact, our field staff only report to the main office to replenish medical supplies.
What happens if an employee is experiencing symptoms?
Any staff members who experience any symptoms of an illness are required to stay at home or at a respite site. If an employee experiences respiratory symptoms, they must be screened and cleared by a Registered Nurse before returning to work.
There seems to be a shortage of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), how are Concord Regional VNA staff able to adhere to these procedures?
We continue to replenish our supply as available to ensure our employees and patients are protected. Thankfully, the community has been incredibly generous with donations and businesses have increased production to protect health care workers and our patients.
What types of donations is Concord Regional VNA accepting / do you need, and how can I donate?
Concord Regional VNA is in need of the following:
- KN95 masks
- Procedure masks
- Hand sanitizer
- Disinfectant wipes
- Hand-made cloth face masks
To make a donation of any of the above items, please contact Melissa Howard at melissa.howard@crvna.org or call 731-7757.
Additionally, we are accepting cheerful cards and postage stamps for volunteers to send to hospice patients. To make a donation, please contact Lisa Challender at lisa.challender@crvna.org or call (603) 410-9850.
How can I protect myself?
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds. If unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then promptly discard the tissue in the trash.
- Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose.
- Avoid sharing of personal items, such as water bottles and utensils.
How can I help prevent the spread?
Practice social distancing. Stay home unless absolutely necessary. If you need to leave your home for essential needs, wear a mask in public and maintain a distance of at least six feet between yourself and others. Additionally, if you, a family member, or someone with whom you have close contact experiences any of the following symptoms, please notify your care team immediately:
- Fever greater than 100.0 F
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Chills
- Repeated shaking with chills
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Sore throat
- New loss of taste or smell
What are the visitation policies at the Hospice House?
Patients are asked to designate two visitors for the duration of their stay. Those visitors are allowed to visit with patients between 11 a.m and 7 p.m. daily. All visitors are screened for symptoms and temperature, are required to wear a cloth mask during visitation, and are asked to adhere to CDC guidelines for handwashing and social distancing while visiting. Family and loved ones who are not designated visitors may check in with Hospice House staff by phone to discuss other ways we can help connect them for virtual visitation.
Is Concord Regional VNA accepting new patients?
Yes. For more information, talk to your primary care physician or call us directly at (603) 224-4093.
Is Concord Regional VNA still holding senior clinics, bereavement services and other wellness programming?
Any in-person clinics, services and programs are suspended for now. We are offering virtual programming beginning in May and will continue to explore additional programming
Click here to view our tentative calendar and continue to check back for updates.
Does your agency need volunteers? If so, how can I volunteer?
We are grateful to our volunteers, who continue to support our patients and the community. As restrictions remain in place at the Hospice House and other facilities where we provide care, there is no immediate need for additional volunteers. However, we tentatively have a training scheduled for late summer or early fall. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please complete the online application, found here.
If you have additional questions or concerns, please contact us at (603) 224-4093, and please be sure to explore our website and follow Concord Regional VNA on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and information.
Web Sites
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
New Hampshire Department of Public Health
New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services.
Wellness Tip Sheets
Caregiving 101 - The Big Three
Home Safety for Fall Prevention
Risk Factors that Contribute to Falls