In a recent study, researchers found that people with diabetes are 1.76 times more likely to die from COVID, 1.59 times more likely to be admitted to ICU, 1.44 times more likely to require ventilation, and 2.88 times more likely to be classed as severe or critical when compared to patients without diabetes.

Honestly, this isn’t really surprising if you look at the demographics in centers and the number of cases/deaths from COVID in the past 2 years. Our residents are vulnerable and have multiple co-morbidities that can and often do lead to poor outcomes. As the pandemic continues to peak and trough, we need to stay the course and be alert to subtle changes in our resident’s condition.

Consider re-educating your team on the signs and symptoms of COVID infection, audit your medical records to ensure staff are adhering to any and all policies regarding resident assessment and documentation. Meet with your medical director to discuss options for treating active COVID infections in your high-risk residents and of course, continue screening your staff and visitors. Remember, COVID doesn’t just appear, it is brought into our centers, often by asymptomatic visitors. Hang tough, we are close but not quite there yet! Stay the course, stay well, and stay informed!