Reading, PA — The Berks County Commissioners released a statement Tuesday evening in response to questions regarding PPE standards and usage at the Berks Heim.
Berks Heim is adhering the PPE guidelines
Berks Heim staff are adhering to recommended Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) usage guidelines and optimization strategies in accordance with the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC). The Heim is providing all staff with the appropriate and approved PPE.
While there are challenges securing PPE, Berks County has significant PPE on order for the Heim as well as other county departments. Heim staff have been utilizing universal masking for resident care prior to the first positive COVID case. Per CDC recommendations, for procedures considered lower risk, use of a face shield with surgical mask is appropriate. N95 respirators are recommended when performing or present for an aerosol generating procedure and will be used accordingly. The proactive measures Berks Heim has implemented for the safety of the staff and residents including the early implementation of eye protection and facemasks are consistent with the CDC epidemiologic risk classification for health care workers. We appreciate our dedicated front line and support staff who continue to serve our residents every day.
