Two dead at nursing home

16 test positive for COVID-19 at Montgomery facility

By Connor Linskey
Posted 4/1/20

Montgomery Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center (MNRC) announced Sunday that two long-term residents previously hospitalized had passed away after testing positive for COVID-19.

In addition, 16 …

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Two dead at nursing home

16 test positive for COVID-19 at Montgomery facility

Posted

Montgomery Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center (MNRC) announced Sunday that two long-term residents previously hospitalized had passed away after testing positive for COVID-19.

In addition, 16 residents have tested positive for the novel coronavirus as well as two staff members, who are currently recovering at their homes.

“MNRC remains committed to providing a safe environment of care,” said Vincent Maniscalco, vice president of strategic planning for MNRC. “MNRC is continuing to work collaboratively under the guidance of the New York State Department of Health (DOH). The facility has also been in touch with the county health department and Office of Emergency Management (OEM).”

MNRC has taken a number of precautions to limit the spread of COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has mandated a variety of steps which MNRC had previously implemented. These recommendations include strict infection control and prevention initiatives, stringent handwashing procedures, restricting visitation and screening all individuals, including staff members, that are permitted to enter the center. All health care workers follow the guidance issued by the CDC and the DOH for transmission-based precautions in caring for their patients.

All COVID-19 positive residents are currently quarantined with isolation precautions in place. MNRC has also contracted a third-party independent company to perform a disinfectant cleaning process throughout the entire facility and in all resident rooms.

The Town of Montgomery has given a wealth of support to the nursing home during this trying time.

The Town of Montgomery Community Response Team has offered to provide services to employees who are currently working at MNRC, to show their appreciation as well as to allow them to remain at home when not at work. The idea is to give these employees the resources they need while limiting their footprint throughout the greater Town of Montgomery community. Resources to be provided to MNRC may include providing shift meals from local establishments and the purchasing of groceries and other essential items. Volunteers from the Response Team will handle shopping needs and deliver meals to limit the employees’ needs to leave their homes when they are not at work.

Some employees who are concerned about being in close proximity to their families during this time will be offered a discounted rate at a Town of Montgomery hotel, if requested.

“It is essential that we work together to support these dedicated healthcare providers while limiting potential exposure to our local residents and others throughout the Hudson Valley,” said Town of Montgomery Supervisor Brian Maher.

The Valley Central School District has also lent a helping hand. They donated disposable paper supplies for the MNRC. Cascarino’s Pizzeria Ristorante has donated more than 250 paper supplies as well.

Maniscalco noted that it is important for everyone to stay strong during this difficult time.

“In this time of unprecedented stress, anxiety and uncertainty, it is crucial to remember that we are ALL in this together and Montgomery Nursing and Rehabilitation Center greatly appreciates the support from the surrounding community, our dedicated and exceptional staff, residents, families and the guidance from the local and state offices of the Department of Health, Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and the offices of the Orange County Executive,” he said. “Our hearts go out to the patients and staff and their loved ones. We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those whose lives have been lost and extend our sincerest wishes for a full recovery to all of those affected.”