As we exit viral respiratory season and COVID-19 case numbers remain lower for our region, VUMC is resuming standard infection prevention protocols. These changes reflect current available evidence in the prevention of COVID-19, including high levels of vaccine and infection induced immunity and the availability of effective treatment and prevention tools.
As we exit viral respiratory season and COVID-19 case numbers remain lower for our region, VUMC is resuming standard infection prevention protocols. These changes reflect current available evidence in the prevention of COVID-19, including high levels of vaccine and infection induced immunity and the availability of effective treatment and prevention tools.
Masking
Universal masking of patients, employees, and visitors is no longer required at VUMC including in clinical areas, non-clinical areas, and on shuttles. Individuals may still choose to wear a mask as an option, and we ask that all VUMC colleagues be respectful of this choice.
Masks should still be worn for specific indications such as the following:
- For isolation precautions when indicated (e.g. Droplet Precautions or when evaluating a patient with respiratory symptoms),
- For individuals following COVID-19 infection who are instructed to wear a mask for a specific duration after clearance to return to work by Occupational Health,
- For patients who present with symptoms of acute respiratory infection including COVID-19, and
- For employees who develop symptoms of acute respiratory infection at work until they are able to leave as per VUMC policy.
In Person Meetings/ Gatherings/ Work from Home
Meetings and gatherings are allowed with no restriction on the number of attendees or requirements for social distancing. Masks are not required. Employees working from home should discuss with their leaders any changes to their existing remote work arrangements.
Screening
All workforce members should monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 and, if feeling ill, should contact their supervisor before coming to work. Signage advising symptomatic visitors and those with known current COVID-19 infection to defer visiting until symptoms have resolved (i.e., similar to pre-COVID infection prevention practices) will be maintained.
Visitor Guidance
Visitation guidance will be modified as needed by entity leadership in consultation with infection prevention. Current entity visitation practices can be found here: https://www.vumc.org/coronavirus/current-covid-19-visitor-policies.
Work-Related Travel
No COVID-related restrictions on travel. Individuals shall comply with all applicable travel rules for the US and countries traveling to if international.
Testing for SARS-CoV-2 in Asymptomatic Patients
Asymptomatic testing for SARS-CoV-2 should CONTINUE for the following:
- Admission testing for all asymptomatic patients admitted to following units:
- VUH: 10CCT, 11N, MCE6, and MCE7
- MCJCHV: 6A/B
- Immediate pre-transplant pre-procedure testing
- Prior to receipt of severely immunosuppressive medication at the discretion of the attending physician
- Pre-placement for post-acute care facility (if required)
- Occupational Health approved employee testing
Asymptomatic testing for SARS-CoV-2 is NO LONGER REQUIRED for the following:
- Routine admissions to units not noted above
- Pre-procedure with the exception of immediate pre-transplant
NOTE: Guidance around testing of symptomatic persons has not changed. Clinicians should be vigilant and screen all patients for the presence of COVID-19 symptoms and isolate and test any patient who reports symptoms.
