Question reference: S5W-35838
- Asked by: Alexander Burnett, MSP for Aberdeenshire West, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party
- Date lodged: 9 March 2021
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Current status: Answered by Jeane Freeman on 24 March 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government under what circumstances care home residents might be required to continue to be kept in isolation, and what plans it has to review the COVID-19 guidance regarding this.
Answer
To minimise the risk of viral introduction to a care home from residents transferring in, all resident transfers must complete a total of 14 days of isolation either starting on or including the date of transfer in addition to the testing required.
In addition, all symptomatic or COVID-19 diagnosed residents in the care home should be isolated immediately for 14 days from the date of symptom onset (or date of first positive test if symptom onset undetermined).
In terms of support and reassurance to families and their loved ones, there are care practices to ensure that people are supported during this period of isolation. Essential visits are a further option for both relatives and residents, if there are concerns about wellbeing or distress, for example during the 14 day period.
The latest guidance from Health Protection Scotland supports those working in care home settings and was published on 31 December 2020. It sets out measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and how to provide care for individuals as safely as possible, including those completing a period of isolation. The guidance is available at: COVID-19: Information and Guidance for Care Home Settings (Adults and Older People) (windows.net) .
The 14 day period will remain in place for the immediate future and like all clinical guidance is continually reviewed to take account of the emerging picture around COVID-19.