Submitted Photo Infection control RN Nora Ramirez discusses the use of personal protective equipment with the staff of the Chautauqua Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Chautauqua Nursing and Rehabilitation Center on Temple Road in Dunkirk announced Monday that of its nearly 200 residents, all have tested negative for COVID-19.

Residents were swabbed by staff RNs to determine the eradication results. In addition, as mandated, employees at the facility are being tested twice weekly to ensure the health and safety of everyone.

Per the governor’s May 10 directive, hospitals are prohibited from discharging patients to nursing homes unless they test negative for the virus. As an extra precaution, Chautauqua Nursing & Rehabilitation Center is requiring that all new admissions remain in a separate, designated hallway for 14 days after arrival. “The residents’ safety is always paramount.” said Jason Newman of VESTRACARE Corporate. “Now that the county has started rolling out phase two, we cannot pretend this virus has just gone away, especially because the vast majority of the population we serve are extremely vulnerable.” Additionally, the Infection Control RN, Nora Ramirez, in conjunction with the Supervisor of Housekeeping, Michele Meyers and her team continues to be vigilant in following intensive deep cleaning protocols throughout the facility.

“The test results are a true reflection of each individual’s work ethic, personal follow-through and commitment to those in our care,” said Colleen Hart, administrator. “We could not be more proud of the CNRC team.”

The center credits efforts by administration and staff that have kept the Resident’s safe and healthy. “I really strive to foster a culture of safety focused on infection control for residents and staff,” Ramirez said. Chautauqua Nursing and Rehabilitation Center has adopted the idea of evidenced-based teaching which involves several hours weekly of hands on, demonstration focused in-servicing of all departments so that everyone is on the same page and understands policies and procedures.

“We’re not perfect and we don’t claim to be,” Hart said. “We’re jut trying to be the best the we possibly can and hope that others will follow suit. We are all in this together.” CTNRC has immediate employment opportunities available in all departments. Hart also wishes to thank the employees for their on-going efforts and the families for their continued patience.

Chautauqua Nursing & Rehabilitation Center provides 24-hour skilled nursing care, subacute rehabilitation, memory care, palliative care and wound care services. The facility is rated five stars out of five by the federal government, which rates every facility in the nation. Learn more at www.chautauquanursing.com or www.medicare.gov.