As part of our ongoing efforts to align with provincial public health guidance and evolving best practices in healthcare, we are updating the masking protocols effective July 1. These changes reflect current evidence and support safe, person-centered care delivery while ensuring appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Please review the following updates carefully:
Universal Masking Protocols (Effective July 1)
- Masking is not required during client care when clients screen negative on the Acute Infectious Disease Screener (AID).
- Masking remains required when clients screen positive on the AID Screener:
- A well-fitting surgical mask and eye protection must be worn.
- If providing direct care, also wear gloves and a gown.
N95 Respirator Use
- N95 respirators are only required in the following situations:
- When caring for clients with known airborne transmissible diseases
- During aerosol-generating medical procedures
Point-of-Care Risk Assessment (PCRA) and AID Screener
- A PCRA must be completed before every client interaction. This is a routine practice to assess the potential risk of exposure to infectious agents and determine the appropriate PPE required to protect both staff and clients.
- The AID Screener must be completed prior to each client visit, using the mobile app. The tool helps identify signs and symptoms of infectious diseases through four screening questions.
- Education on PCRA and the AID Screener will be available through the PSW portal and Inside the Circle to support consistent and informed use.
Additional Information
- Wear a surgical mask when the PCRA indicates a risk of exposure to blood or bodily fluids.
- Wear a surgical mask when the client or caregiver is significantly immunocompromised, such as post-transplant patients or those undergoing chemotherapy or immunosuppressive therapy.
- Universal masking in the Adult Day Program is being reviewed separately at this time.
We appreciate your continued professionalism and commitment to safe and high-quality client care. If you have any questions about these changes or need support with implementation, please speak with your supervisor.
PPE Ordering Supplies Changes
App Update
On July 1, log out and log back into the app to view the latest updates on supply ordering.
Quantity Menu Adjustments
- Isolation Gowns: Maximum order of 5 for a 3-week period.
- Surgical Masks: Maximum order of 20 for a 3-week period.
- Medical Gloves: Minimum and maximum quantity is 1; Admin Team will determine the appropriate quantity based on client numbers and hours.
- Shoe Covers: Provided only for infestation cases with Client Services Supervisors’ approval.
- N95s: On request only with CSS approval for clients with airborne precautions.
- Blue Gowns: Discontinued.
- Hand Soap: Discontinued; hand sanitizers will continue to be provided.
Supply Management
- Supplies are estimated to last for 3 weeks.
- Reorders can be placed 14 days after the last order.
- For additional quantities, use the Comment box in the app; requests will be reviewed by CSS for approval.
- Ensure to determine necessary items and quantities, and pick up your Supply Package when indicated as “Ready for Pick Up” in the app.
- All Supply Orders must be collected within 7 days; uncollected orders will be canceled; a new order will be required.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why are mask protocols changing?
The World Health Organization (WHO) ended the global COVID-19 public health emergency in May 2023. In Ontario, mask mandates were lifted in healthcare settings based on improved vaccination rates, lower transmission rates, and manageable healthcare capacity. COVID-19 is now managed as an endemic virus like influenza.
2. Is it safe to provide care without a mask?
Yes, if the client screens negative on the AID Screener and there’s no clinical risk identified through the PCRA. Routine infection prevention measures (hand hygiene, screening, staying home when sick) remain essential to keeping staff and clients safe.
3. What if my client screens positive during the visit?
If a client screens positive on the AID Screener, you must wear a surgical mask, eye protection, gloves, and a gown when providing care. Always keep a supply of PPE with you.
4. When else should I wear a mask?
Wear a surgical mask:
- If there is a risk of splashing bodily fluids
- When the client or caregiver is immunocompromised
5. Who do I contact if I have questions or need PPE?
Contact your Client Services Supervisor for PPE needs or if you’re unsure about masking requirements. Refer to the portal for updates on PCRA and AID Screener education.