How MTM Handled the Pandemic
How MTM Handled the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 was devastating in many ways. The lack of information about the virus and all that went along with it made it difficult for people to understand what was going on. Despite the lack of information provided to the public by the CDC, the company was able to use the given information and use it to operate in a safe environment. Staff and clients felt safe being there because of the quick and thought-out plans that were put into place. The company did a great job throughout the entire course of the pandemic. My experience with working for this company through this pandemic has made me proud to be a part of the staff. When speaking to my friends who worked at different personal care homes, I learned that new policies were not immediately set in place and their outcomes were unfortunately much different. I don t think anyone could have been prepared to shut down in the beginning of March 2020. About a year later and there are still obstacles to face but the way the company handled the situation from the very beginning has made every day easier.
There were many new procedures and guidelines put into place. Some of which were per CDC and others per the company. Any and all new procedures or guidelines put into place were all discussed accordingly. Things were explained in detail to staff. Clients were also given information. Trainings were administered accordingly as well. Training for the proper way to wear PPE was given immediately along with being fitted for N95 masks. Surgical masks, face shields, and gowns were given immediately. Staff and residents were split into zones to lessen cross contamination. Unfortunately, visitations were stopped from anyone who was not a client or staff member. Trips out into the public and community were also stopped to decrease the chances of bringing the virus into the building. Even though there were many activities that were stopped, there were other activities that increased. All activities that increased or were added were all in their own zones. Staff and clients were tested on a weekly basis. If a client tested positive, they were immediately moved to a different building. Fortunately, there were only a few clients that tested positive for COVID.
Since new policies were immediately put into place at the start of the pandemic, staff felt safe when working at MTM. Moral was great as we all worked together to keep clients and staff as safe and healthy as possible. The company showed their appreciation to staff by giving weekly gifts which were amazing. Staff was also given monthly bonuses.
This pandemic has been a life changing down fall for the entire world. But this company, along with staff, has made it much easier to get through for everyone, but most importantly, easier for the clients.