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ABCs of COVID-19 Infection Prevention
Here is an A–Z list of infection prevention and control resources for nursing facility staff. Each letter links to a relevant fact sheet, flyer, tool or website for more details.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 03/20/2024    Date Last Modified: Apr 4 2024 8:53AM  
Adverse Events in Nursing Homes
CMS has added the February 2014 OIG report on Adverse Events in SNFs as well as a listing of Potentially Preventable Adverse Events, the Adverse Drug Event Trigger Tool, Acronyms Related to Adverse Events & a comment they will add more tools and resources.
Web link    Date Added: 02/06/2017    Date Last Modified: Feb 6 2017 12:00AM  
Advocating for our Residents: Importance of LTC Staff Taking the COVID-19 Vaccine
View this video featuring Jill Vianco, administrator of Advanced Rehabilitation & Healthcare of Vernon, Texas, discussing the importance of long-term care team members protecting their residents by receiving a COVID-19 vaccine.
Video    Date Added: 02/04/2021    Date Last Modified: Mar 22 2021 12:35PM  
AHRQ COVID-19 Identification & Prevention Series
This series of three learning modules focuses on identifying the signs and symptoms of COVID-19, knowing when and how to report signs and symptoms of COVID-19, and remembering to maintain infection prevention processes.
Web link    Date Added: 06/22/2022    Date Last Modified: Jun 22 2022 4:35PM  
AHRQ Releases Training Modules to Help Improve the Safety of Nursing Home Residents
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has released a set of training modules to help educate nursing home staff on key patient safety concepts critical to improving the safety of nursing home residents. Each of the modules has an instructor’s guide and a student workbook.
Web link    Date Added: 07/30/2012    Date Last Modified: Jul 30 2012 12:00AM  
An Interview with a CNA on Vaccine Hesitancy
In this video, a nursing home CNA shares her perspectives on the COVID-19 vaccinations.
Video    Date Added: 03/12/2021    Date Last Modified: Feb 8 2022 12:11PM  
Antibiotic Resistance and Stewardship Word Search
This PDF provides a word search game focused on antibiotic resistance and stewardship.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/18/2024    Date Last Modified: Apr 18 2024 4:35PM  
April 18, 2024, Nursing Home Connect — Handout
This is the PDF handout from the TMF QIN-QIO's recorded webinar about Nursing Home Tips for Success.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/19/2024    Date Last Modified: Apr 15 2024 2:23PM  
Asymptomatic Bacteriuria
This article explains how the diagnosis is made, outlines the reasons for treating and summarizes the reasons for avoiding unnecessary treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria.
Web link    Date Added: 10/11/2023    Date Last Modified: Oct 11 2023 2:15PM  
Badge Buddies
Cut out these Badge Buddy infection prevention tips to insert in nursing home staff badge holders. Also, promote your Vaccine Champions and Hand Hygiene Heroes with logo versions. There are vertical and horizontal versions to suit your needs.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 08/24/2023    Date Last Modified: Aug 24 2023 9:18AM  
Best Practices Pocket Cards
These Best Practices Pocket Cards can be printed and laminated for education, training and reminders for staff in a variety of topics.
Web link    Date Added: 05/01/2023    Date Last Modified: May 1 2023 10:17AM  
CDC Long-Term Care Respiratory Surveillance Line List
The Respiratory Surveillance Line List from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides a template for data collection and active monitoring of both residents and staff during a suspected respiratory illness cluster or outbreak at a nursing home or other long-term care facility.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/16/2020    Date Last Modified: Apr 16 2020 11:25PM  
CDC Public Health Media Library
The discovery of antibiotics was one of the greatest medical achievements of the twentieth century. However, overuse of these drugs has led to the development of resistance in bacteria. As a consequence, some infections can result in serious illness and even death. In this podcast, Dr. Tarayn Fairlie discusses the dangers of overusing antibiotics.
Web link    Date Added: 10/26/2012    Date Last Modified: Oct 26 2012 12:00AM  
CDC's COVID-19 Bridge Access Payment Program
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Bridge Access Program provides no-cost COVID-19 vaccines to adults without health insurance and adults whose insurance does not cover all COVID-19 vaccine costs. Find locations and other resources at this link.
Web link    Date Added: 10/11/2023    Date Last Modified: Oct 11 2023 1:46PM  
Certified Medical Director (CMD) Training Series: Topic 2 – Infection Control
In this module 2 of TMF's monthly CMD training series, medical directors will understand the importance of implementing a successful infection prevention and control program (IPC) in the nursing home setting and how to integrate IPC into their Quality Assurance Performance Improvement (QAPI) program.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/15/2024    Date Last Modified: Apr 12 2024 1:42PM  
Clostridium difficile Denominators for Long-Term Care Facilities
Use this quick and easy form to gather and document monthly data for submission to the NHSN CDI Project.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/02/2020    Date Last Modified: Mar 21 2023 3:19PM  
CMS Updates to Nursing Home Visitation FAQs
Download this latest version of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' (CMS) Nursing Home Visitation FAQs, which were updated Feb. 2, 2022, with information about testing visitors for COVID-19, improving air flow and air quality in facilities and funding available for environmental changes, which could potentially reduce transmission of COVID-19.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 02/03/2022    Date Last Modified: Sep 11 2023 4:57PM  
Core Elements of Antibiotic Stewardship in Nursing Homes
This CDC website for long-term care providers provides information and resources on prevention of infections, offers information for clinical staff, infection control coordinators and residents on topices related to antibiotic stewardship, dialysis safety and hand hygiene, and access to infection tracking system for long-term care facilities.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 09/29/2016    Date Last Modified: Mar 29 2023 10:19AM  
County COVID-19 Transmission Rate Signs
There are four color levels for mask guidance classified by the CDC based on local county COVID-19 transmission rates. Use these signs in your facility to show your local county's current transmission rate level and mask guidance.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 12/07/2022    Date Last Modified: Dec 13 2022 3:32PM  
COVID Vaccination for Long-Term Care Facility Health Care Workers: The ‘Why’ and the ‘What If’
View this video featuring Russell Kohl, MD, FAAFP, TMF chief medical officer, who discusses the impacts of COVID-19 in nursing homes and the vaccines that have been released to fight COVID-19 in the U.S.
Video    Date Added: 02/02/2021    Date Last Modified: Sep 11 2023 5:02PM  
COVID-19 LTC-Surveyor Training
Nursing home surveyors can take this brief training related to a focused COVID-19 survey. See the Associated Documents table for a list of supporting resources. This site may require a free account to access the tools and training.
Web link    Date Added: 04/03/2020    Date Last Modified: Apr 3 2020 12:18PM  
COVID-19 Toolkit for Nursing Homes
This toolkit provides information about COVID-19, including resources on steps to preventing the spread of the virus, building trust in vaccines, providing guidance on vaccinations and learning more about the different variants.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 11/09/2021    Date Last Modified: Nov 9 2021 1:04PM  
COVID-19 Vaccine and the Black Community: A Tyler Perry Special
This video features writer, actor, producer and director Tyler Perry, who discusses the COVID-19 vaccine with medical experts. The interview includes information about how the Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines work, the science and history behind the vaccine development, and the reasons for vaccine hesitancy in people of color.
Video    Date Added: 02/03/2021    Date Last Modified: Mar 22 2021 12:37PM  
Deep Tissue Pressure Injury or an Imposter Guide
This guide depicts the early appearance and evolution of a deep tissue pressure injury (DTPI) from intact, deep red/maroon or purple colored skin to epidermolysis and "blood blisters." The guide also includes the differential diagnoses (imposters) of ischemic and traumatic injury that can mimic DTPI.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 03/02/2021    Date Last Modified: Mar 16 2021 2:25PM  
Don't Skip Your Thumbs
Download this poster to display in your facility to help remind patients and staff about proper handwashing techniques.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 12/01/2013    Date Last Modified: Dec 1 2013 12:00AM  
Education is Key to Resident Safety During COVID-19
Read this success story about Good Shepherd Lutheran Home's efforts to find the possible initial cause of and contain a sudden COVID-19 outbreak in August 2022. The practices and education they put in place will help to prevent future outbreaks.
Web link    Date Added: 01/05/2023    Date Last Modified: Jan 6 2023 1:53AM  
Fishbone Diagram - Influenza Example
Use this fishbone diagram to help your organization conduct a root cause analysis. This document is a draft of suggestions and must be modified by the facility team to ensure they reflect their QI work.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 09/16/2022    Date Last Modified: Sep 16 2022 11:20AM  
Fishbone Diagram - Pneumonia Example
Use this pneumonia example fishbone diagram to help your organization conduct a root cause analysis. This document is a draft of suggestions and must be modified by the facility team to ensure they reflect their QI work.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 09/19/2022    Date Last Modified: Sep 16 2022 11:59AM  
Fishbone Diagram: Root Cause Analysis for Nursing Homes
Use this fishbone diagram to help your organization conduct a root cause analysis. This document is a draft of suggestions and must be modified by the facility team to ensure they reflect their quality improvement work.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 08/03/2022    Date Last Modified: Aug 3 2022 9:43AM  
Get Ahead of Sepsis Educational Materials
Get Ahead of Sepsis is a national educational effort that emphasizes the importance of early recognition, timely treatment, reassessment of antibiotic needs, and prevention of infections. Here are sepsis fact sheets, infographics, posters, brochures and social media content from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Web link    Date Added: 11/21/2022    Date Last Modified: Feb 26 2024 3:52PM  
Hand Hygiene Hero Poster
Promote infection control and prevention among nursing home staff with this poster to encourage and recognize Hand Hygiene Heroes.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 09/05/2023    Date Last Modified: Sep 5 2023 9:10AM  
Handwashing and Sanitizing Infographic for Visitors
Handwashing is one of the best ways to protect you and your family from getting sick. Nursing facilities can post this flyer to educate visitors and families when and how they should wash their hands to stay healthy.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 09/13/2023    Date Last Modified: Sep 13 2023 11:12AM  
Have You Heard of Urinary Incontinence?
This video discusses urinary incontinence, including the types and causes and how to implement the appropriate interventions.
Video    Date Added: 10/17/2017    Date Last Modified: Jan 4 2023 2:19PM  
Helping Residents with Dementia Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 in LTC Communities
This document acknowledges challenges to and provides strategies for preventing the spread of COVID-19 among long-term community residents living with dementia.
Web link    Date Added: 04/27/2022    Date Last Modified: Apr 26 2022 8:22AM  
High Five: The Correct Way to Wash Your Hands
This tip sheet provides a detailed step-by-step illustration and description on how to wash your hands correctly.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 07/18/2022    Date Last Modified: Jul 18 2022 5:30PM  
How to Read a Disinfectant Label
This new infographic is based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 11/07/2022    Date Last Modified: Nov 7 2022 1:42PM  
How to Select, Wear and Clean Your Mask
Visit this CDC web page to learn how to select a mask and how to correctly wear and clean your mask.
Web link    Date Added: 08/31/2020    Date Last Modified: Aug 31 2020 1:17PM  
Immunization Series Part 1: How to Get a 100% on Influenza Vaccinations
This presentation is from the Sept. 15, 2022, LTC Connect webinar, "Immunization Series Part 1: How to Get a 100% on Influenza Vaccinations."
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 09/20/2022    Date Last Modified: Jan 18 2023 9:34AM  
Infection Prevention and Control Mini-Toolkit
This mini-toolkit includes resources geared toward improving infection prevention and control practices.
Web link    Date Added: 02/11/2022    Date Last Modified: Feb 11 2022 8:10AM  
Infection Prevention Compendium for LTC Facilities
This toolkit, developed by New York Academy of Medicine and Yale School of Nursing, includes infection control and prevention tools and resources targeting long-term care (LTC) facilities, administrators, support staff, etc.
Web link    Date Added: 09/10/2021    Date Last Modified: Sep 10 2021 8:07AM  
Infection Prevention Education Generates Significant Results
Like many nursing homes, Calder Woods in Beaumont, Texas, found residents and family inconsistent with wearing masks to help prevent infection, particularly the coronavirus. Find out the steps they took to success.
Web link    Date Added: 06/01/2023    Date Last Modified: Jun 1 2023 4:00PM  
Infection Prevention Word Search
This PDF provides a word search game focused on infection prevention.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/18/2024    Date Last Modified: Apr 18 2024 4:25PM  
Infection Prevention: Getting Back to the Basics
Read this success story to learn why and how Jones County Rest Home in Ellis, Mississippi went back to the basics of proper hand hygiene after investigating the cause of a COVID-19 outbreak at their facility.
Web link    Date Added: 01/05/2023    Date Last Modified: Jan 6 2023 1:51AM  
Infection Preventionist Daily Task List
The Infection Preventionist Daily Task List is a guide for the infection preventionist (IP) to use in their daily work. It can also serve as a mechanism to notify leadership of emerging trends and issues.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/14/2020    Date Last Modified: Apr 14 2020 11:47AM  
Infection Preventionist Monthly Task List
The Infection Preventionist Monthly Task List is a guide for the infection preventionists to use in their work. It also serves as a mechanism to notify leadership of required monthly reviews.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/21/2020    Date Last Modified: Apr 21 2020 4:51PM  
Influenza Mini-Toolkit
This mini-toolkit includes influenza vaccine resources for the nursing home team as well as residents and their families.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 02/03/2021    Date Last Modified: Mar 24 2022 11:18PM  
It Starts With You Flyer
The journey to COVID-19 infection control starts with each one of us. This flyer for nursing homes displays all the important prevention methods to encourage in your facility.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 10/03/2023    Date Last Modified: Oct 3 2023 2:49PM  
Language that Works to Improve Vaccine Acceptance Communications Cheat Sheet
The de Beaumont Foundation offers concise, practical guidance around language and messaging to support vaccine acceptance. This toolkit includes communication tips and specific recommended language emerging from a broader survey conducted on the topic.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 02/28/2021    Date Last Modified: Mar 22 2021 10:47AM  
Lessons from the Field: COVID-19 On-site Visits
Listen to this Sept. 17, 2020, recording presented by TMF Quality Innovation Network-Quality Improvement Organization webinar. Dr. Buffy Lloyd-Krejci with Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières shares findings from visits to nursing homes in Houston/Harris County. Click here to view the slide presentation for this webinar. https://tmfnetworks.org/Portals/0/Resource%20Center/091720%20Office%20Hrs%20PPT_COVID-19_Final_508.pdf
Video    Date Added: 10/21/2020    Date Last Modified: Feb 8 2022 12:06PM  
List of Environmental Cleaning Agents
To improve infection prevention and control, use this chart to easily list your facility's approved disinfectants as well as the EPA registration number and company for each.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 03/24/2023    Date Last Modified: Mar 24 2023 4:52PM  
Long Term Care Infection Control Worksheet
Use this worksheet comprised of both regulatory requirements and best practices in infection prevention and control to help create an improved infection prevention and control program.
Web link    Date Added: 05/19/2020    Date Last Modified: May 19 2020 5:56PM  
Long-term Effects of COVID-19
This graphic provides information about the systems of the human body affected by COVID-19.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/01/2024    Date Last Modified: Apr 9 2024 11:34AM  
LTC Connect: Being Mindful of Medications in Acute Illness and COVID-19
This May 19, 2022, LTC Connect recording features Amie Taggart Blaszczyk, PharmD, BCGP, BCPS, FASCP, professor and division head of Geriatrics & Pediatrics with Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, discussing her research on medication issues seen in the wake of a COVID-19 diagnosis. Her findings show the dangers of polypharmacy and interactions beyond the acute illness, and can inform us about what to watch out for when any acute illness occurs in residents.
Video    Date Added: 05/24/2022    Date Last Modified: Jan 18 2023 9:47AM  
LTC Connect: Immunization Series Part 1 – How to Get a 100% on Influenza Vaccinations
This Sept. 15, 2022, LTC Connect recording is the first of a two-part immunization webinar series. This session focuses on influenza vaccinations for residents and staff. Discussion includes the benefits of and recommendations for the influenza vaccine, as well as how nursing facilities can use data to improve vaccination processes and reporting.
Video    Date Added: 09/19/2022    Date Last Modified: Jan 18 2023 9:36AM  
LTC Connect: Immunization Series Part 2 – How to Get a 100% on Pneumonia Vaccinations
This Oct. 20, 2022, LTC Connect recording is the second of a two-part immunization webinar series. This session focuses on pneumonia vaccinations for residents and staff. Discussion includes the benefits of and recommendations for the pneumonia vaccine, as well as how nursing facilities can use data to improve vaccination processes and reporting.
Video    Date Added: 10/25/2022    Date Last Modified: Jan 18 2023 9:25AM  
LTC Connect: Improving Immunization Rates for Influenza and Pneumonia Vaccinations
This Sept. 21 webinar recording explores the benefits of and recommendations for pneumonia and influenza vaccines for residents and staff. Additionally, TMF Quality Innovation Network–Quality Improvement Organization specialists discuss how nursing facilities can use data to improve vaccination processes for tracking and reporting.
Video    Date Added: 10/10/2023    Date Last Modified: Nov 16 2023 9:49AM  
LTC Connect: Infection Control Practices and Compliance
This July 21 LTC Connect recording features TMF QIN-QIO subject-matter experts reviewing hand hygiene protocols and proper procedures for donning and doffing personal protective equipment. They also discuss targeted COVID-19 training from CMS for management and frontline staff, including vaccination system preparation.
Video    Date Added: 07/28/2022    Date Last Modified: Jan 18 2023 9:41AM  
LTC Connect: Keeping Your Residents 'Home' for the Holidays
This Dec. 8, 2022, LTC Connect recording focuses on ways to reduce emergency department visits and readmissions during the holiday season. Discussion includes preventive measures such as influenza, pneumonia and COVID-19 vaccinations.
Video    Date Added: 12/16/2022    Date Last Modified: Dec 16 2022 7:56AM  
LTC Connect: Reducing Hospitalizations Due to Facility-Acquired Infections, Part 1 – Antibiotic Stewardship
This March 16, 2023, LTC Connect recording focuses on reducing hospitalizations due to facility-acquired infections and antibiotic stewardship. TMF Quality Innovation Network-Quality Improvement Organization specialists discussed how proper identification of urinary tract infections and having an antibiotic stewardship process can help to decrease unnecessary antibiotics as well as help to reduce emergency department visits and readmissions for your residents.
Video    Date Added: 03/20/2023    Date Last Modified: Mar 20 2023 11:00AM  
LTC Connect: Reducing Hospitalizations Due to Facility-Acquired Infections, Part 1 – Antibiotic Stewardship
This presentation is from the March 16, 2023, LTC Connect webinar, "Reducing Hospitalizations Due to Facility-Acquired Infections, Part 1 – Antibiotic Stewardship."
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 03/14/2023    Date Last Modified: Mar 14 2023 1:15AM  
LTC Connect: Reducing Hospitalizations Due to Facility-Acquired Infections, Part 2 – : Sepsis and Pneumonia
This April 20, 2023, LTC Connect recording focuses on reducing hospitalizations due to pneumonia and sepsis facility-acquired infections. TMF Quality Innovation Network-Quality Improvement Organization specialists reviewed pneumonia and sepsis in the nursing home setting and explore how to reduce hospitalizations by creating clinical champions and using advance care planning.
Video    Date Added: 04/24/2023    Date Last Modified: May 1 2023 8:53AM  
LTC Connect: Up to Speed – NHSN Updates
This June 16, 2022, LTC Connect recording features TMF QIN-QIO subject-matter experts reviewing recent updates to the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) reporting system, including changes to the data that facilities are asked to report in the COVID-19 Pathway and Vaccination modules.
Video    Date Added: 06/21/2022    Date Last Modified: Jan 18 2023 9:42AM  
Making Room for Infection Prevention
Discover how the staff at Park View Care Center in Fort Worth, Texas, successfully implemented a program to allow available space for all new admissions and readmissions, including those with COVID-19.
Web link    Date Added: 02/16/2023    Date Last Modified: Feb 16 2023 5:04PM  
Malaria Recommendations for Clinicians
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a June 26, 2023, health advisory about malaria cases detected in Florida and Texas, and that increased international travel over the summer season may increase risk of malaria.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 07/03/2023    Date Last Modified: Jul 3 2023 9:22AM  
May 16: Nursing Home Connect – Sepsis Prevention: Pneumonia
Register to attend this Nursing Home Connect webinar on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at 1:30–2:30 p.m. CT. Readmissions linked to sepsis are common and costly. TMF QIN-QIO specialists will discuss key prevention and early detection strategies associated with pneumonia diagnoses.
WebEx    Date Added: 04/18/2024    Date Last Modified: Apr 19 2024 8:31AM  
May 2: Nursing Home Connect – Sepsis Prevention: UTI
Register to attend this Nursing Home Connect webinar on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at 1:30–2:30 p.m. CT. Sepsis is the body’s extreme reaction to an untreated infection and is a life-threatening emergency. TMF QIN-QIO specialists explain how sepsis develops from a urinary tract infection (UTI), the symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment and most importantly, prevention.
WebEx    Date Added: 04/18/2024    Date Last Modified: Apr 18 2024 8:22AM  
May 9: Nursing Home Connect – Sepsis Prevention: Surgical Site and Wound Infections
Register to attend this Nursing Home Connect webinar on Thursday, May 9, 2024, at 1:30–2:30 p.m. CT. Learn how your entire interdisciplinary team can prevent, identify and get ahead of wound infections that can lead to life-threatening sepsis.
WebEx    Date Added: 04/18/2024    Date Last Modified: Apr 18 2024 8:25AM  
Multidrug-Resistant Organism & Clostridioides difficile Infection (MDRO & CDI)
This National Healthcare Safety Network website provides information on the MDRO/CDI event reporting module using laboratory-identified event methodology.
Web link    Date Added: 02/01/2023    Date Last Modified: Feb 1 2023 3:54PM  
Multidrug-Resistant Organisms (MDROs) Toolkit
"This toolkit was developed by the North Carolina Surveillance for Healthcare Associated and Resistant Pathogens Patient Safety (SHARPPS) Program specifically for long-term care facilities to assist in addressing MDROs.
Web link    Date Added: 02/01/2023    Date Last Modified: Feb 1 2023 3:48PM  
Norovirus Outbreak Toolkit for Health Care Providers
This toolkit can guide a facility through a norovirus outbreak with a fillable checklist.
Web link    Date Added: 12/11/2023    Date Last Modified: Dec 6 2023 9:12AM  
Nursing Facility Infection Control Assessment
TMF Quality Improvement Specialists provide nursing homes with free infection control assessments on site and online. This short video explains what to expect from TMF’s visit.
Video    Date Added: 11/08/2023    Date Last Modified: Nov 8 2023 3:56PM  
Nursing Home Connect: Functional Decline after COVID-19 Infection
Listen to this TMF Quality Innovation Network Nursing Home Connect webinar recording from April 4, 2024, to learn how nursing home staff can identify symptoms of Long COVID and address issues that can lead to functional decline. Listeners can also learn how to minimize impacts and help residents improve.
WebEx    Date Added: 04/08/2024    Date Last Modified: Apr 9 2024 11:06AM  
Nursing Home Connect: Sepsis 101
Listen to this TMF Quality Innovation Network Nursing Home Connect webinar recording from April 11, 2024, to learn about nursing home facility infection control procedures, including vaccinations, as a way to prevent sepsis and associated hospital readmissions.
WebEx    Date Added: 04/12/2024    Date Last Modified: Apr 12 2024 10:48AM  
Nursing Home Office Hours – Environmental Cleaning Challenges and Tips
In this April 11, 2023, recording, Kate Tyner from the Nebraska Infection Control Assessment and Promotion Program (ICAP) discusses environmental cleaning and disinfection, which often includes directions that are complex for low-literacy staff. Learn solutions to overcome these challenges. This video also includes a regional update on COVID-19 bivalent vaccination rates.
Video    Date Added: 04/13/2023    Date Last Modified: Apr 14 2023 11:35AM  
Nursing Home Office Hours – Introducing ICARE: Infection Control Advocate and Resident Education
In this Feb. 28, 2023, recording, Diana Cervantes, DrPH, professor at the University of North Texas Center for Older Adults, shares infection prevention and control best practices for respiratory illness outbreaks, including the role of COVID-19 vaccination.
Video    Date Added: 03/01/2023    Date Last Modified: Mar 1 2023 12:25PM  
Nursing Home Office Hours: Getting Ahead of Sepsis
In this Nov. 15, 2022, recording, TMF QIN-QIO specialists discuss infection control procedures, including COVID-19 vaccinations, as a way to prevent sepsis.
Video    Date Added: 11/21/2022    Date Last Modified: Feb 8 2023 4:44PM  
On Demand: CMS-CDC Fundamentals of COVID-19 Prevention for Nursing Home Management
A nursing home training series focused on infection control features 13 self-paced sessions on managing the COVID-19 pandemic.
Web link    Date Added: 10/08/2020    Date Last Modified: Oct 8 2020 3:25PM  
Outcomes Table Reporting Template - Influenza Example
Use this tool with the influenza example to help you set up your measures for reporting your quality improvement project. This document is a draft of suggestions and must be modified by the facility team to ensure they reflect their QI work.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 09/16/2022    Date Last Modified: Sep 19 2022 7:31AM  
Outcomes Table Reporting Template - Pneumonia Example
Use this tool with the pneumonia example to help you set up your measures for reporting your quality improvement project. This document is a draft of suggestions and must be modified by the facility team to ensure they reflect their QI work.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 09/19/2022    Date Last Modified: Sep 16 2022 11:58AM  
Outcomes Tracking Table for Nursing Homes
Use this document to help you set up your measures for reporting your quality improvement (QI) project. This document is a draft of suggestions and must be modified by the facility team to ensure they reflect their QI work.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 08/03/2022    Date Last Modified: Aug 3 2022 9:45AM  
Pneumonia Mini-Toolkit
This toolkit includes pneumonia vaccine resources for nursing home team members as well as residents and their families.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 02/12/2021    Date Last Modified: Oct 12 2022 10:25AM  
Post-Acute Care Sepsis Early Identification and Treatment Pathway
This post-acute care tool helps caregivers quickly identify the signs and symptoms of sepsis and begin treatment.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/03/2024    Date Last Modified: Apr 18 2024 4:16PM  
Posters for Patients with Catheters, Fistulas or Grafts
These two posters are from the CDC to help educate dialysis patients with either a catheter or a fistula or graft on infection control practices.
Web link    Date Added: 03/21/2023    Date Last Modified: Mar 21 2023 9:37AM  
Preventing COVID-19 Infection Among Residents Who Visit Skilled Nursing Facilities and Dialysis Facilities
A regional work group in Allegheny County Pennsylvania identified a risk of transmitting the SARS-CoV-2 infection from residents of skilled nursing facilities and assisted living facilities who also visit dialysis facilities. Download this memo and communication form from the National Forum of ESRD Networks that explains the identified problem and proposed solution to minimize infection.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 08/19/2020    Date Last Modified: Aug 19 2020 12:17PM  
Providers More Likely to Wash Hands When Reminded About Patient Safety
According to a Sept. 1 Medical News Today article, a new Psychological Science study found that health care professionals were more likely to wash their hands if they were reminded about keeping patients safe, as opposed to being reminded about personal risks.
Web link    Date Added: 09/15/2011    Date Last Modified: Sep 15 2011 12:00AM  
QI Plan - Vaccine Example
Use this tool with influenza and pneumonia examples to help your team develop the quality improvement plan based on your root case analysis. This document is a draft of suggestions and must be modified by the facility team to ensure they reflect their QI work.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 09/16/2022    Date Last Modified: Sep 19 2022 7:42AM  
QI Plan for Nursing Homes
Use this tool to help your team develop the quality improvement (QI) plan based on your root case analysis. This document is a draft of suggestions and must be modified by the facility team to ensure they reflect their QI work.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 08/03/2022    Date Last Modified: Aug 3 2022 9:44AM  
Quality Improvement Example Infection Prevention Plan
This quality improvement plan provides an example of how to identify a concern, determine the root cause(s) and develop a plan with outcome measures. This is to be used only as a reference.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 01/20/2022    Date Last Modified: Jan 20 2022 5:22PM  
Quality Measure Tip Sheet: Influenza Vaccine – Long & Short Stay
The Quality Measure Tip Sheet provides an overview of the influenza vaccine measure, MDS coding requirements and additional tips and assessment considerations.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/02/2020    Date Last Modified: Jan 15 2021 10:11AM  
Quality Measure Tip Sheet: Pneumonia Vaccine – Long & Short-Stay
This Quality Measures Tip Sheet provides an overview of the pneumonia vaccine measure, MDS coding requirements and additional tips and assessment considerations
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/02/2020    Date Last Modified: Oct 5 2022 10:52AM  
Quality Measure Tip Sheet: Urinary Tract Infection – Long Stay
This Quality Measures Tip Sheet provides an overview of the urinary tract infection (long-stay) measure, MDS coding requirements, possible root causes and more.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 06/11/2020    Date Last Modified: Jun 11 2020 4:30PM  
Quality Measure: Percent of Residents Assessed and Appropriately Given the Pneumococcal Vaccine (Short-Stay)
View this video recording to learn more about the Quality Measures (QM) specification for the percent of short-stay residents who were accessed and appropriately given the pneumococcal vaccine. Duration: 13:24
Video    Date Added: 07/29/2021    Date Last Modified: Jul 29 2021 6:12PM  
Quality Measure: Percent of Residents with a Urinary Tract Infection (Long Stay)
This video reviews the quality measure specification for the percent of long-stay residents with a urinary tract infection to identify the relationship between the Minimum Data Set and this quality measure.
Video    Date Added: 06/03/2020    Date Last Modified: Jun 3 2020 3:59PM  
Reducing Hospitalizations Due to Facility-acquired Infections, Part 2
This presentation is from the April 20, 2023, LTC Connect webinar, "Reducing Hospitalizations Due to Facility-acquired Infections, Part 2: Sepsis and Pneumonia."
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/19/2023    Date Last Modified: Apr 19 2023 10:20AM  
Remember the 3 Ws for the Holidays (printer-friendly version)
This printable holiday poster reminds readers of the three Ws to keep your season happy and bright - wear a mask, wash your hands and watch your distance.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 12/06/2022    Date Last Modified: Dec 6 2022 2:47PM  
Remember the 3 Ws for the Holidays (web-friendly version)
This web-friendly holiday poster reminds readers of the three Ws to keep your season happy and bright - wear a mask, wash your hands and watch your distance.
Unknown item type    Date Added: 12/06/2022    Date Last Modified: Dec 6 2022 2:48PM  
Reporting and Reducing Clostridioides difficile Infections
Share this educational tool with all staff, residents, family and visitors, and place it in new admission packets. Also consider adding it to infection prevention ongoing education.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/02/2020    Date Last Modified: Apr 21 2020 3:45PM  
Reporting and Reducing Urinary Tract Infections
Share this educational tool with all staff, residents, family and visitors, and place it in new admission packets. Also consider adding it to infection prevention ongoing education.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/03/2020    Date Last Modified: Feb 2 2023 5:43PM  
Respirator Fit Testing
This Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality - AHRQ - document provides guidance on what fit testing is, how to do it and what the person being tested can expect.
Web link    Date Added: 04/20/2022    Date Last Modified: Apr 21 2022 9:51AM  
SBAR for Sepsis
Use this situation, background, assessment, recommendation (SBAR) tool to enhance caregiver-to-physician communication while discussing a change in a resident's status.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/03/2024    Date Last Modified: Apr 18 2024 4:16PM  
Sepsis Word Games
This webpage provides downloadable sepsis word game templates for word search, crossword puzzles and unscramble the words.
Web link    Date Added: 04/18/2023    Date Last Modified: Apr 18 2024 4:23PM  
Sequence for Donning and Removing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Post this Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) signage in English and Spanish to educate nursing facility staff on the proper sequence for donning and removing PPE.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 03/26/2024    Date Last Modified: Mar 26 2024 11:08AM  
Staying COVID-19 Free After an Outbreak
Learn how Jefferson County Nursing Home in Fayette, Mississippi, increased resident bivalent vaccination rates by more than 80% and have remained COVID-19 free since August 2022.
Web link    Date Added: 03/14/2023    Date Last Modified: Mar 13 2023 10:57AM  
Success Story: Address Knowledge Gaps to Prevent Infection Outbreaks
After its last COVID-19 outbreak, Querencia at Barton Creek in Austin, Texas, found a need for refreshed educational efforts toward hand hygiene and disinfectant measures. Find out how this nursing facility used tools, training and resources to implement an effective infection prevention plan and remain outbreak-free.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/04/2024    Date Last Modified: Apr 4 2024 2:05PM  
Suspected UTI SBAR Toolkit
This situation, background, assessment, recommendation (SBAR) toolkit from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) helps nursing staff communicate about suspected urinary tract infections (UTIs) with prescribing clinicians to determine the need for antibiotics.
Web link    Date Added: 03/02/2023    Date Last Modified: Mar 2 2023 11:27AM  
The Voice of the Resident in this Year of COVID-19
View this video featuring Carolyn Worley, a resident at Advanced Rehabilitation & Healthcare of Vernon, Texas, who provides a resident's point of view about the importance of all nursing home team members receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.
Video    Date Added: 02/04/2021    Date Last Modified: Mar 22 2021 12:36PM  
Think Sepsis Quick Reference Guide
This sepsis quick reference guide provides the clinical signs and symptoms of infection in nursing residents, helping caregivers determine when to call a doctor.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/03/2024    Date Last Modified: Apr 18 2024 4:16PM  
Tips on Mask-Wearing for People with Dementia
This article shares some reasons why people with dementia resist wearing masks (e.g., post-war trauma) and also provides tips on how to help overcome that resistance.
Web link    Date Added: 04/26/2022    Date Last Modified: Apr 26 2022 8:17AM  
Toolkit 3. The Nursing Home Antibiogram Program Toolkit: How To Develop and Implement an Antibiogram Program
A nursing home-specific antibiogram may be an effective and inexpensive tool for improving appropriate antibiotic prescribing. This toolkit reflects the results of preliminary work with three nursing homes to develop the antibiogram, train staff and implement the program.
Web link    Date Added: 03/29/2023    Date Last Modified: Mar 29 2023 10:24AM  
Topic-Specific Infection Prevention Links for health care providers and consumers - APIC
The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) website has organized information on key infection prevention topics for health care professionals and consumers.
Web link    Date Added: 10/13/2016    Date Last Modified: Oct 13 2016 12:00AM  
Tracking Tool Helps Nursing Homes Monitor Healthcare-Acquired Infections
There is a new tracking tool on the market that is aimed at helping nursing homes monitor healthcare-acquired infections. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Healthcare Safety Network released a new tracking component that allows long-term care facilities to log onto a website where they can report cases of infections such as C. difficile, urinary tract infections, and others.
Web link    Date Added: 09/23/2012    Date Last Modified: Sep 23 2012 12:00AM  
Train Nursing Home Staff for COVID-19 as a Team with Group Facilitator’s Guide
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Targeted COVID-19 Training for Frontline Nursing Home Staff Group Facilitator’s Guide makes it easy to integrate this training into existing staff meetings or orientations and fosters team collaboration. Nursing homes that complete the CMS training will help QIN-QIOs document COVID-19 infection prevention and control training among 75 percent of staff members in your facility.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 08/25/2023    Date Last Modified: Aug 25 2023 1:42PM  
Urinary Incontinence (Bladder Control Problems)
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases defines the types of urinary incontinence, reviews the causes and symptoms, describes treatments, and includes additional resources.
Web link    Date Added: 01/09/2023    Date Last Modified: Jan 9 2023 10:05AM  
Urinary Incontinence in Older Adults
The National Institute on Aging provides resources on bladder health and tips for managing incontinence in those with Alzheimer’s Disease, reviews the types of incontinence, discusses how to manage and treat urinary incontinence, shares bladder control training techniques, along with additional resources
Web link    Date Added: 01/09/2023    Date Last Modified: Jan 9 2023 10:04AM  
Urinary Tract Infection Denominators for Long-Term Care Facilities
Use this quick and easy form to gather and document monthly data for submission to the NHSN UTI Project.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/02/2020    Date Last Modified: Mar 16 2023 10:26AM  
Using PPEs in Nursing Homes to Prevent Spread of MDROs
The CDC website details rationale for enhanced barrier precautions and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) use to prevent multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO) spread in nursing homes. The website includes videos, posters and pocket guides.
Web link    Date Added: 02/14/2024    Date Last Modified: Jan 25 2024 5:33PM  
Vaccinating Adults: A Step-by-Step Guide
Vaccinating Adults: A Step-by-Step Guide provides 142 pages of practical information in an easy-to-use format to help you implement or enhance adult immunization services in your health care setting. The guide also includes an abundance of web addresses and references to assist you in staying up-to-date with the most current information. Developed by staff at the Immunization Action Coalition, the Guide had several early reviews for technical accuracy by subject matter experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Vaccine Program Office.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 03/01/2021    Date Last Modified: Feb 26 2021 7:14PM  
Vaccine Hesitancy Among Minority Groups
View this video featuring Monika Maxwell, RN, who shares her perspective, as a Hispanic woman in health care, on why minority communities may be hesitant to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
Video    Date Added: 02/25/2021    Date Last Modified: Feb 8 2022 12:12PM  
Vaccine Hesitancy: Concerns with Fertility and Pregnancy
View this video featuring nationally recognized women's health physician Gloria Richard-Davis, MD, MBA, NCMP, FACOG, with the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences (UAMS), who addresses common fertility concerns with COVID-19 vaccines and why it is important to receive the vaccine.
Video    Date Added: 07/28/2021    Date Last Modified: Feb 8 2022 12:12PM  
Vital Signs: Preventing Clostridium difficile Infections
This investigational report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention focuses on health care exposures for Clostridium difficile infections (CDIs), the percentage of CDIs that occur in health care settings other than hospitals and whether prevention programs actually reduce CDIs.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 03/29/2012    Date Last Modified: Mar 29 2012 12:00AM  
Wanted Poster: Vaccine Champions
Use this cute flyer in nursing facilities to encourage staff to become COVID-19 Vaccine Champions and promote infection prevention.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 07/06/2023    Date Last Modified: Sep 22 2023 10:19AM  
Wear a Mask - It Is the Right Thing to Do
Bryan Health developed this poster showing the levels of risk for the spread of COVID-19 with and without a mask. Download the PDF and share this important information with your team and residents.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 12/10/2020    Date Last Modified: Dec 9 2020 4:07PM  
Well-Being Playbook 2.0: A COVID-19 Resource for Hospital and Health System Leaders
The American Hospital Association has updated the Well-being Playbook with tools to support teams who work directly with patients with COVID-19. This version includes curated resources specific to COVID-19 on suicide prevention, operationalizing peer support, and a guide to walk leaders through well-being program development and execution.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 03/03/2021    Date Last Modified: Mar 2 2021 6:58PM  
Why I Endorse Taking the COVID-19 Vaccines
View this video featuring renowned long-term care practitioner Joleann Beene, RN-BC, IP-BC, FACDONA, CDP, CADDCT, who shares her experience with receiving the COVID-19 vaccine and discusses the importance of all nursing home team members being vaccinated.
Video    Date Added: 02/04/2021    Date Last Modified: Mar 22 2021 12:36PM  
Your Five Moments for Hand Hygiene
Download and share this handout from the World Health Organization that shows when it is important to wash your hands when caring for a patient or resident.
Web link    Date Added: 06/24/2020    Date Last Modified: Oct 24 2022 6:25AM  
Badge Buddies — Spanish for Puerto Rico
Cut out these Spanish for Puerto Rico Badge Buddy infection prevention tips to insert in nursing home staff badge holders. There are vertical and horizontal versions to suit your needs. Also, display your Vaccine Champions and Hand Hygiene Heroes with the trophy logo versions.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 09/01/2023    Date Last Modified: Sep 1 2023 8:55AM  
County COVID-19 Transmission Rate Signs (Spanish for Puerto Rico)
There are four color levels for mask guidance classified by the CDC based on local county COVID-19 transmission rates. Use these signs in Spanish for Puerto Rico to show your local county's current transmission rate level and mask guidance.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 01/24/2023    Date Last Modified: Jan 24 2023 3:14PM  
Hand Hygiene Hero Poster — Spanish for Puerto Rico
Promote infection control and prevention among nursing home staff with this poster in Spanish for Puerto Rico to encourage and recognize Hand Hygiene Heroes.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 09/15/2023    Date Last Modified: Sep 15 2023 7:12AM  
Handwashing and Sanitizing Infographic for Visitors — Spanish for Puerto Rico
Handwashing is one of the best ways to protect you and your family from getting sick. Nursing facilities can post this flyer in Spanish for Puerto Rico to educate visitors and families when and how they should wash their hands to stay healthy.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 09/28/2023    Date Last Modified: Sep 28 2023 3:50PM  
It Starts With You Flyer — Spanish for Puerto Rico
The journey to COVID-19 infection control starts with each one of us. This flyer in Spanish for Puerto Rico displays all the important prevention methods to encourage in nursing homes.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 10/20/2023    Date Last Modified: Oct 20 2023 10:12AM  
Malaria Recommendations for Clinicians — Spanish for Puerto Rico
This fact sheet in Spanish for Puerto Rico details the CDC's June 26, 2023, health advisory about malaria cases detected in Florida and Texas, and that increased international travel over the summer season may increase risk of malaria.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 07/14/2023    Date Last Modified: Jul 14 2023 2:53PM  
Antibiotics: Too Much of a Good Thing Can Be Bad (Spanish/U.S.)
Antibiotics are some of the most commonly prescribed drugs and save millions of lives each year. However, overuse and misuse have led to an alarming rise in antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Review this poster to learn about the dangers of overusing antibiotics and why sometimes they are not the answer.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 02/02/2017    Date Last Modified: Feb 2 2017 12:00AM  
Badge Buddies — U.S. Spanish
Cut out these U.S. Spanish Badge Buddy infection prevention tips to insert in nursing home staff badge holders. There are vertical and horizontal versions to suit your needs. Also, display your Vaccine Champions and Hand Hygiene Heroes with the trophy logo versions.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 09/01/2023    Date Last Modified: Sep 1 2023 8:54AM  
County COVID-19 Transmission Rate Signs — U.S. Spanish
There are four color levels for mask guidance classified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) based on local county COVID-19 transmission rates. Use these signs in U.S. Spanish to show your local county's current transmission rate level and mask guidance.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 04/10/2023    Date Last Modified: Jul 6 2023 3:31PM  
Hand Hygiene Hero Poster — U.S. Spanish
Promote infection control and prevention among nursing home staff with this U.S. Spanish poster to encourage and recognize Hand Hygiene Heroes.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 09/15/2023    Date Last Modified: Sep 15 2023 7:11AM  
Handwashing and Sanitizing Infographic for Visitors — U.S. Spanish
Handwashing is one of the best ways to protect you and your family from getting sick. Nursing facilities can post this U.S. Spanish flyer to educate visitors and families when and how they should wash their hands to stay healthy.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 09/28/2023    Date Last Modified: Sep 28 2023 3:48PM  
How to Read a Disinfectant Label (U.S. Spanish)
This Spanish infographic is based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 11/30/2022    Date Last Modified: Nov 30 2022 11:43AM  
It Starts With You Flyer — U.S. Spanish
The journey to COVID-19 infection control starts with each one of us. This U.S. Spanish flyer for nursing homes displays all the important prevention methods to encourage in your facility.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 10/20/2023    Date Last Modified: Oct 20 2023 10:10AM  
Malaria Recommendations for Clinicians — U.S. Spanish
This fact sheet in U.S. Spanish details the CDC's June 26, 2023, health advisory about malaria cases detected in Florida and Texas, and that increased international travel over the summer season may increase risk of malaria.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 07/14/2023    Date Last Modified: Jul 14 2023 2:52PM  
Urinary Incontinence in Older Adults - Spanish version
The National Institute on Aging provides resources in Spanish on bladder health and tips for managing incontinence in those with Alzheimer’s Disease, reviews the types of incontinence, discusses how to manage and treat urinary incontinence, shares bladder control training techniques, along with additional resources.
Web link    Date Added: 01/09/2023    Date Last Modified: Jan 9 2023 6:22PM  
County COVID-19 Transmission Rate Signs (Vietnamese)
There are four color levels for mask guidance classified by the CDC based on local county COVID-19 transmission rates. Use these signs in Vietnamese to show your local county's current transmission rate level and mask guidance.
Adobe PDF    Date Added: 02/01/2023    Date Last Modified: Feb 1 2023 12:20PM