COVID-19 Screening Protocol Changes

Posted on December 9, 2020 by Kari Everson

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) modified how surveyors should look at staff screening procedures and they have removed the requirement for active screening. Requirements for the organization in reference to staff screening include the need for a screening process that all staff must complete prior to or at the beginning of their shift.

The screening process should screen for signs and symptoms of illness and must include whether fever is present. The organization needs to document the names of staff who have signs and symptoms of COVID-19 according to the community surveillance plan.

When screening visitors, the organization also requires a screening process and criteria that includes screening questions and assessment of illness. This allows organizations to develop a process it feels is most appropriate. The requirement instructs those permitted entry to frequently perform hand hygiene; limit their interactions with others in the facility and surfaces touched; restrict their visit to the resident’s room or other location designated by the facility; maintain at least six feet from others in the facility; and are required to wear a cloth face covering or facemask during the duration of their visit remains in place.