DC105-COVID-19 Management Policy

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

COVID-19 Management Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish a structured, efficient, and evidence-based approach to managing COVID-19 within {{org_field_name}}. Our priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of service users, care workers, and stakeholders while maintaining high-quality care services in compliance with regulatory and public health guidance. This policy outlines infection prevention measures, response protocols, staff responsibilities, and service continuity planning to mitigate risks associated with COVID-19.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, service users, visitors, contractors, and third-party partners involved in domiciliary care services. It covers:

Infection prevention and control measures.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) use and availability.
COVID-19 testing and symptom management.
Response to suspected or confirmed cases.
Vaccination policies and staff immunisation support.
Service user safeguarding and communication strategies.
Compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

This policy aligns with the following guidance and legislation:

Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 – Ensures safe and effective care provision.
Care Quality Commission (CQC) Infection Prevention and Control Guidelines – Mandates robust infection control practices.
Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – Protects employees and service users from workplace hazards.
The Coronavirus Act 2020 – Provides emergency legislative measures for pandemic response.
UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) COVID-19 Guidance for Adult Social Care – Provides up-to-date infection control and testing guidelines.
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) 2018 – Ensures confidentiality in managing health-related information.

4. Infection Prevention and Control Measures

To minimise the risk of COVID-19 transmission, the following infection prevention measures are implemented:

Hand Hygiene: Staff must follow strict handwashing protocols using soap and water or hand sanitiser before and after contact with service users.
Environmental Cleaning: Regular disinfection of frequently touched surfaces, including door handles, mobility aids, and care equipment.
Ventilation: Encouraging airflow in service user homes by opening windows where appropriate.
Social Distancing: Where feasible, maintaining a safe distance in interactions with service users and colleagues.
Cough and Respiratory Etiquette: Encouraging covering of mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, followed by immediate hand hygiene.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Use and Availability

To protect staff and service users, PPE is provided and must be used appropriately:

Face Masks: All care workers must wear fluid-resistant surgical masks (Type IIR) when in close contact with service users.
Gloves: Must be worn during direct personal care and disposed of after each use.
Aprons and Gowns: Disposable aprons must be used when providing close-contact care; full gowns may be required for high-risk cases.
Eye Protection: Face shields or goggles must be used in situations where there is a risk of splash exposure.
Stock Management: PPE stock levels are monitored, and replenishment processes ensure constant availability.

6. COVID-19 Testing and Symptom Management

Regular testing and symptom monitoring help prevent outbreaks. Protocols include:

Symptom Awareness: Staff and service users must report symptoms such as fever, cough, or loss of taste/smell.
Lateral Flow and PCR Testing: Routine testing is conducted as per government guidance.
Self-Isolation Measures: Any staff member testing positive must follow self-isolation protocols and notify management immediately.
Return-to-Work Policy: Staff must complete the required isolation period and be symptom-free before resuming work.

7. Response to Suspected or Confirmed Cases

In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 case:

Immediate Notification: Staff must report any suspected case to their line manager:

Where to report:

1) Verbally to the Registered Manager or Infection Control Lead

2) Inform the Registered Manager by email: {{org_field_registered_manager_email}}

3) Call the office and inform the Registered Manager or Infection Control Lead: {{org_field_phone_no}}

4) Out of hours phone number: {{out_of_hours}}

5) Online via our website: {{org_field_website}}

Isolation Protocols: Service users with symptoms should remain in a designated area of their home, with limited contact from care workers.
Enhanced Infection Control: Deep cleaning and disinfection measures are undertaken in affected areas.
Liaising with Health Authorities: Local health protection teams will be informed for guidance on containment measures.
Monitoring and Well-Being Support: Affected service users receive increased welfare checks and healthcare coordination.

8. Vaccination Policies and Immunisation Support

Vaccination is a critical component of COVID-19 risk management. Our policy includes:

Encouraging Staff Vaccination: Regular updates and education on vaccine safety and effectiveness.
Facilitating Access: Supporting staff in booking vaccine appointments.
Service User Vaccination: Promoting vaccination uptake among service users and coordinating with healthcare providers.
Booster Programmes: Encouraging staff and service users to receive booster doses as per NHS guidance.

9. Service User Safeguarding and Communication Strategies

Effective communication ensures that service users and families are well-informed:

Clear Information Sharing: Updates on COVID-19 safety measures, testing, and vaccination protocols are provided to service users and their families.
Consent for Care Changes: Any changes to service delivery (e.g., temporary staff changes due to illness) are communicated clearly.
Emotional and Psychological Support: Ensuring service users experiencing isolation receive emotional support and social interaction opportunities.
Safeguarding Considerations: Additional checks on vulnerable individuals to prevent neglect or deteriorating health due to pandemic-related disruptions.

10. Compliance Monitoring and Staff Training

To ensure compliance with COVID-19 management protocols:

Mandatory Training: All staff receive COVID-19 infection control training, including PPE use, testing procedures, and emergency response.
Policy Audits: Regular audits assess adherence to hygiene, PPE, and reporting procedures.
Incident Reporting: Any COVID-19 breaches or non-compliance cases are investigated and addressed.
Continuous Policy Updates: This policy is reviewed and updated regularly in line with evolving government and health authority guidelines.

11. Monitoring, Auditing, and Continuous Improvement

We ensure best practices by:

Conducting weekly PPE audits and stock checks.
Holding monthly staff briefings on updated COVID-19 guidance.
Encouraging feedback from service users on COVID-19 safety measures.
Reviewing infection control performance and adapting strategies as needed.
Engaging with external health bodies to align with the latest recommendations.

12. Policy Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed every six months or as required by new public health regulations. Any updates will be communicated to all staff and stakeholders, with additional training provided where necessary.

Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.