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CDC and CMS Update COVID-19 Guidance

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated the Interim Infection Prevention and Control recommendations for Healthcare Personnel During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic. As previously announced , the CDC is discontinuing the COVID-19 Community Transmission map with the end of the PHE on May 11.

To better align with these updated CDC recommendations, CMS also announced the expiration of QSO-20-38-NH (COVID-19 Testing) effective May 11 and the revision of QSO-20-39-NH (Visitation) effective May 8. They have now retired F885, F886, and F888.  Key changes from CDC and CMS include:

1. Testing for COVID-19 should be conducted by following accepted national standards, such as CDC recommendations. Admission testing is now at the discretion of the facility. Non-compliance related to COVID-19 testing will be cited at F880.
2. Source control is recommended:

• • For individuals who have suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection or other respiratory infection.
  • For individuals who had close contact (patients and visitors) or a higher-risk exposure (HCP) with someone with SARS-CoV-2 infection, for 10 days after their exposure.
  • During outbreak, facility-wide or based on facility risk assessment and as recommended by public health authorities (e.g., guidance for the community when COVID-19 hospital admission levels are high).

3. Visitation during an outbreak investigation is recommended to occur in the resident’s room, and visitors are recommended to wear well-fitting source control (if tolerated) and physically distance if able.  Visitors are encouraged to stay up to date on their vaccinations.

4. Visual alerts are required for visitors to understand infection prevention and control (IPC) best practices and what source control is recommended in the facility, at any time.  Signage can be obtained from the CDPHE website.

 

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