Requirements for Quarantine in Nursing Home

A quarantine is a public health precaution used to separate someone who is not currently sick but has had a potential exposure to those who may have a communicable disease. Nursing homes and other health care facilities follow guidelines for quarantine that are set forth by the Centers for Disease Control. Diseases that warrant a quarantine include cholera, SARS, any flu that results in a pandemic, tuberculosis and smallpox. Nursing facilities must follow all rules and requirements to protect patients and the public.

Separation

• The CDC mandates that any room or area that is under quarantine follow particular standards. There must be access to a telephone, electricity, heat, water and a functioning bathroom. The room or area must be separate from all other patients.

Necessities

• Patients or individuals under quarantine must have access to doctors and nurses, be provided meals, have laundry that is done separately from the other patients, and supplied with the necessities for personal care and hygiene. Anyone who goes into the quarantined area is required to wear masks, gloves and gowns.

Comfort

• Quarantined individuals must be allowed some type of social diversion, including the use of a television, radio, computer, magazines or books. Shopping should be done for the patients as needed, and banking has to be done as well.

Requirements

• Any area that is under quarantine must have proper ventilation and air conditioning. The room must meet all guidelines set forth by the CDC as determined by a public health official. The area must have ease of access for anyone who suffers from a handicap or disability.