You must to Register, or Create Account

Catalog Advanced Search

Search by Category
Sort By
Credits Offered
Search by Favorites
Search by Keyword
Search by Category
Search by Format
Search by Type
Search by Speakers
Credits Offered
Search in Packages
Search by Date Range
Products are filtered by different dates, depending on the combination of live and on-demand components that they contain, and on whether any live components are over or not.
Start
End
Search by Favorites
Search by Keyword
Sort By

205 Results

  • Wanting to learn more about potential PACE opportunities?
    Contains 1 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 11/07/2024 at 2:30 PM (EST)

    Join a webinar on November 7 with PACE experts Jade Gong and Tina Hansen Pickett from ATI Advisory to learn more. The webinar will provide a high-level overview of the PACE model, cover recent trends in PACE growth, and highlight existing and potential PACE opportunities for AHCA/NCAL members.

    The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) provides comprehensive medical and social services to frail, community-dwelling older adults who require a nursing home level of care. PACE enrollment has seen strong growth over recent years and currently operates in 33 states and Washington DC. Many states are either in the process of expanding or considering opening PACE, providing ample opportunity for new entrants in the program. 

    Join a webinar on November 7 with PACE experts Jade Gong and Tina Hansen Pickett from ATI Advisory to learn more. The webinar will provide a high-level overview of the PACE model, cover recent trends in PACE growth, and highlight existing and potential PACE opportunities for AHCA/NCAL members.

    This webinar is available to AHCA/NCAL members only. The webinar will be recorded and available for access after the live event. 
    Follow the Instructions Below to Register: 
    • To avoid technical problems, use Google Chrome. 
    • Members will need to log in using their existing email and password first. 
    • Once you are logged in to the website you will be able to register by clicking the green register button at the top of the page. 
    • If you have forgotten your password click here. 
    • If you are new to the site, you can create an account here. Answer all fields on the Create an account page- especially locating your company name. You can search by name or zip code. After creating an account, you will be able to register for the webinar. 
    Email educate@ahca.org if you need assistance with registering. 

    © 2024 American Health Care Association. All rights reserved. Materials subject to this copyright may be photocopied or distributed for the purpose of nonprofit or educational advancement. The use, photocopying, and distribution for commercial purposes of any of these materials is expressly prohibited without the prior written permission of the American Health Care Association.

  • Key Strategies for Retaining Your LTC Workforce
    Contains 2 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 11/05/2024 at 2:00 PM (EST)

    Registration is free to AHCA/NCAL members.

    Registration is free to AHCA/NCAL members. 

    If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar.
    Email educate@ahca.org if you need assistance.

    © 2024 American Health Care Association. All rights reserved. Materials subject to this copyright may be photocopied or distributed for the purpose of nonprofit or educational advancement. The use, photocopying, and distribution for commercial purposes of any of these materials is expressly prohibited without the prior written permission of American Health Care Association.

  • 2024 LTC Workforce Webinar Series
    Contains 4 Product(s)

    This series will focus on issues from career ladders to getting more youth interested in the long term care field to hiring immigrants and refugees. Registration is free to AHCA/NCAL members. Each webinar will be recorded.

    AHCA/NCAL is holding a webinar series this year focused on workforce related matters impacting our long term care providers across the country.  This series is focused on issues from career ladders to getting more youth interested in the long term care field to hiring immigrants and refugees.  During this series, hear directly from provider members – including AHCA/NCAL workforce committee members – and other experts on these matters on what has and hasn’t worked from their experiences.  It is also an opportunity to get your pressing questions answered. 

    Registration is free to AHCA/NCAL members. 

    If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. (No CEs)

    Webinar's in this series will include:
    1. Building the Path: Creating Careers in Long Term Care: recording now available
    2. Refugee Workforce Partnerships in Long Term Care: recording now available
    3. Career Upskilling: Creating Opportunities to Level Up: recording now available
    4. LTC Workforce Retention: November 5th at 2 pm ET

    Additional webinars will be released throughout the year. Registrants will receive an email notification of future scheduled webinars. 

    If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar.
    Follow the Instructions Below to Register: 
    • To avoid technical problems, use Google Chrome. 
    • Members will need to log in using their existing email and password first. 
    • Once you are logged in to the website you will be able to register by clicking the green register button at the top of the page. 
    • If you have forgotten your password click here. 
    • If you are new to the site, you can create an account here. Answer all fields on the create an account page- especially locating your company name. You can search by name or zip code. After creating an account, you will be able to register.
    Email educate@ahca.org if you need assistance.

    © 2024 American Health Care Association. All rights reserved. Materials subject to this copyright may be photocopied or distributed for the purpose of nonprofit or educational advancement. The use, photocopying, and distribution for commercial purposes of any of these materials is expressly prohibited without the prior written permission of American Health Care Association.

  • Metamorphosis: Leadership in a Transformative Culture
    Contains 2 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 10/16/2024 at 2:00 PM (EDT)

    This conversation will inspire a new leadership perspective, moving all leaders to be creative and tenacious in meeting the challenges of the emerging culture of AL/RCF. Registration is $25 for AHCA/NCAL Member. Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. (No CEs)

    OBJECTIVES: At the conclusion of this training, participants will be able to:

    1. Describe the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the culture of AL/RCF care relative to behavioral health, quality care, and quality of life;
    2. Apply the concept of transformational leadership and explain the benefits to workforce development;
    3. Explain the value of mastering Emotional Intelligence (EI) to improve morale, social, and work-related interactions; and
    4. Create an environment of care that speaks to the quality of life of everyone living and working in the community.

    INTENDED AUDIENCE: Leadership, Managers, Supervisors

    AL/RCF leaders are traumatized, fatigued, disillusioned and, in some cases, hopeless to recover from the COVID-19 Pandemic. With many seasoned leaders opting out of the next chapter of AL/RCF, valuable experiential knowledge and support is out of reach for a new generation of leaders. What will the AL/RCF community of tomorrow look like? Do you know where your organization is headed or how you will attract and sustain the workforce you’ll need to meet the needs of future customers? 

    This conversation will inspire a new leadership perspective, moving all leaders to be creative and tenacious in meeting the challenges of the emerging culture of AL/RCF. The concept of transformative leadership and strategies every leader should consider in creating an environment of care that speaks to the needs and satisfaction of everyone living and working in the community is the focus of this session.

    COST: $25 AHCA/NCAL Member
    If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar.  
    Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. All webinars must be in your cart during the checkout process in order to receive discount.
    Additional webinars are:  
    image
    Registration is now open. See the AHCA/NCAL Events page.

  • HUD’s 232 Program-Updates in Production and Asset Management
    Contains 2 Component(s)

    This webinar will cover a range of topics related to HUD’s Residential Care Facility Mortgage Insurance Program. For those unfamiliar with the Section 232 Residential Care facilities Mortgage Insurance Program, the presenters will also briefly summarize the program and its benefits. Additionally, the session will include opportunities to ask any Section 232-related questions you may have. This webinar is free and open to all.

    The AHCA/NCAL webinar, which will be held on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. EST, titled  “HUD’s 232 Program-Updates in Production and Asset Management”, will cover a range of topics related to HUD’s Residential Care Facility Mortgage Insurance Program.  

    Presentation topics will include:

    • Section 232 Program Overview
    • Numbers/trends on application volume, timing, and underwriting issues of note
    • Section 232 Green MIP Transactions:  Borrowers’ Post-Closing Responsibilities
    • Improving Data Quality in the Portal
    • REAC NSPIRE physical inspections
    • HUD-required Action Plans

     Note that, for those unfamiliar with the Section 232 Residential Care facilities Mortgage Insurance Program, the presenters will briefly summarize the program and its benefits.  Additionally, the session will include opportunities to ask any Section 232-related questions you may have.

    HUD Speakers:

    John Hartung, Director, Policy, Risk Analysis and Lender Relations Division

    Philip Head, Director of Asset Management

    Tim Gruenes, Director of Production

    Angela Collier, Deputy Director of Asset Management 

    This webinar is open to AHCA/NCAL members and non-members. There is no charge for participation.

    Membership to AHCA/NCAL is not required to access the materials however, you will need to create an account to identify your personal access to the materials.

    How to Register: 
    • To avoid technical problems, use Google Chrome. 
    • Participants will need to login using their existing ahcancalED username and password first. 
    • Once you are logged in to the website you will be able to register by clicking the green register button at the top of the page. 
    • If you have forgotten your password click here. 
    • If you are new to the site, you can create an account here. After creating an account, you will be able to register for the webinar. 

    Need further assistance? Email educate@ahca.org

  • What’s New for October 1st in MDS and Coding?
    Contains 3 Component(s)

    Each October several key regulatory manuals update, including those for the Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) and ICD-10-CM Codes and Guidelines. Understanding the changes and ensuring documentation practices align with these updates are key for resident care planning, reimbursement, quality measures, quality improvement and regulatory compliance. Registration is $25 AHCA members and $65 Non-members .

    Each October several key regulatory manuals update, including those for the Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) and ICD-10-CM Codes and Guidelines. Understanding the changes and ensuring documentation practices align with these updates are key for resident care planning, reimbursement, quality measures, quality improvement and regulatory compliance.

    Objectives:

    • Summarize major changes to the Minimum Data Set (MDS) and the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) effective October 1, 2024.
      • Explain how to code new items on the MDS beginning 10/1/2024.
      • State best practices for code accuracy.
      • Verbalize an understanding of what is coming in the future for coding.

    Speaker:  Amy Miller RN, BSN, RAC-CT, CPC; Director of Clinical and Regulatory Services; American Health Care Association

    Target Audience: MDS Coordinators, Facility Coders (ICD-10), Directors of Nursing and Administrators.

    Cost:

    Registration is $25 AHCA members

    $65 Non-members  

    A certificate of attendance will be available after viewing the video. 

    Follow the Instructions Below to Register: 

    • To avoid technical problems, use Google Chrome. 
    • Members will need to log in using their existing email and password first. 
    • Once you are logged in to the website you will be able to register by clicking the green register button at the top of the page. 
    • If you have forgotten your password click here. 
    • If you are new to the site, you can create an account here. Answer all fields on the create an account page- especially locating your company name. You can search by name or zip code. After creating an account, you will be able to register.
    Email educate@ahca.org if you need assistance. 
    Disclaimer:

    The MDS 3.0 RAC-CT Recertification Workshop was developed as an educational program and reference for long-term care professionals. To the best of our knowledge, it reflects current federal regulations and practices. However, it cannot be considered absolute and universal. The information contained in this workshop must be considered in light of the individual organization and state regulations. 

    The authors disclaim responsibility for any adverse effect resulting directly or indirectly from the use of the workshop material, from any undetected errors, and from the user’s misunderstanding of the material. The authors put forth every effort to ensure that the content, including any policies, recommendations, and sample documents used in this training, were in agreement with current federal regulations, recommendations, and practices at the time of publication.   

    The information provided in this training is subject to revision based on future updates and clarifications by CMS.

    © 2024 American Health Care Association. All rights reserved. Materials subject to this copyright may be photocopied or distributed for the purpose of nonprofit or educational advancement. The use, photocopying, and distribution for commercial purposes of any of these materials is expressly prohibited without the prior written permission of American Health Care Association.

    Coming Early 2025 

    Learning the Minimum Data Set – Basic Training for the Interdisciplinary Team

    Overall Course Objectives:

    • Explain the role of the RAI (Resident Assessment Instrument) in nursing homes
    • Explain the process for completing the Minimum Data Set (MDS)
    • Verbalize how to complete the various individual data elements of the MDS
    • Verbalize the assessment scheduling and correction process of the MDS.

    More details will be made available January 2025. 

  • NEW!!!

    OSHA Respiratory Protection Plan: Training and Compliance Resources
    Contains 23 Component(s)

    AHCA/NCAL, in collaboration with MCA Consulting, LLC, offers a comprehensive Respiratory Protection Plan training and toolkit. This all-in-one resource contains everything needed for full compliance with OSHA’s federal Respiratory Protection Standard, including a customizable template plan, essential forms, training videos, and detailed reference guides. 3-Year Subscription Rates: AHCA/NCAL Members: $499 Non-members: $699

    Skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities, and ID/DD centers are required by OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard (29 CFR 1910.134) to establish and maintain a respiratory protection program when employees are exposed to airborne hazards, including infectious agents like COVID-19. Compliance is mandatory to avoid fines and penalties. 

    AHCA/NCAL, in collaboration with MCA Consulting, LLC, offers a comprehensive Respiratory Protection Plan training and toolkit. This all-in-one resource contains everything needed for full compliance with OSHA’s federal Respiratory Protection Standard, including a customizable template plan, essential forms, training videos, and detailed reference guides.

    Resources include:

    • Access to OSHA-mandated forms for program documentation
    • Step-by-step fit testing instructions to ensure proper respirator use
    • Customizable templates tailored to your facility's specific needs
    • Practical guides and tools for straightforward implementation
    • Video training for managerial staff and program administrators on respiratory protection requirements
    • Video training for employees, meeting all annual OSHA training requirements

    AHCA/NCAL offers a deeply discounted 3-year subscription for this complete all-in-one resource package valued at $4,000+ if purchased through consulting firms.

    3-Year Subscription Rates:

    AHCA/NCAL Members: $499

    Non-members: $699

    How the Subscription Works:

    One individual will use their ahcancalED login credentials to subscribe. That individual may then share their ahcancalED login credentials with colleagues to access the subscription for unlimited use of all the resources for three years.  

    Bulk purchases available.  Please contact educate@ahca.org 

    ATTENTION ALABAMA: 

    Is your facility located in Alabama? In collaboration between the Alabama Regional Center for Infection Prevention and Control (ARC IPC), Alabama Long-Term Care Strike Team (LTC Strike Team), and the Alabama Nursing Home Association (ANHA), skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, and specialty care assisted living facilities in the state of Alabama are eligible to receive a discount code for free access to the AHCA/NCAL Respiratory Protection Program (limited to one access code per licensed facility). To verify eligibility and obtain a discount code, please contact arcipc@uab.edu.

    Specific to this Template Respiratory Plan:

    Why am I required to have a Respiratory Protection Program?

    OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard 29 CFR 1910.134 states that: “in any workplace where respirators are necessary to protect the health of the employee or whenever respirators are required by the employer, the employer shall establish and implement a written respiratory protection program.” While air contaminants can and should be reduced as feasible through engineering controls (i.e. ventilation) and work practice controls (i.e. distancing), the residual risk of exposure can still be high enough to require the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). NIOSH N95 respirators are the last line of defense when it comes to protecting employees from airborne exposure. Thus, proper procedures, training and use are all critical to protection. Additionally, many infectious diseases require the use of airborne precaution protocols. Therefore, employees who encounter patients on airborne isolation precautions are required to wear respiratory protection which is the initial criteria given by OSHA for a respiratory protection program.

    How do I customize this Template Plan for my facility?

    All Respiratory Programs should include worksite specific procedures. This template plan meets the baseline requirements for a Respiratory Protection Program, as required by OSHA. Organization specific policies and procedures may be included in the “additional notes” sections of the plan. However, any additional procedures added to the template should be carefully followed. 

    Can I use respirators other than conventional N95s?

    There are many types of respirators as well as many levels of filtration. Airborne precautions require an “N95 filtration or greater”. Higher grade filters include but aren’t limited to N99s, N100s, P100s and P99s. N95s are a balance between protection and comfort. They are easiest to breathe through and are typically more readily available in supply chains.

    Respirator styles such as elastomeric Full Face and Half Mask Respirators are reusable, but with the use of these types of respirators, comes more stringent maintenance, inspection, cleaning, and storage protocols that are not addressed in this template program. This program is primarily designed for the use of particulate filtering facepiece respirators (N95s) that are used to protect against airborne infectious diseases.

    Why does this plan address only infectious diseases? Can I address other hazards?

    This plan is tailored to meet the needs of long-term care environments. These environments typically do not deal with hazardous chemical exposures, harmful dusts, or low oxygen levels. Any of these hazards should either be eliminated from the worksite entirely or controlled in a manner to minimize exposure below permissible exposure limits (PELs). See 1910.134(d)(3)(i)(B) (Maximum Use Concentration) and 1910.1000 – (Air contaminants). For more information, see https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910.

    What’s the difference between qualitative and quantitative fit testing methods? Can I use quantitative methods to fit test employees?

    Qualitative Fit Testing:
    • Method: Relies on the respirator user’s sensory response (taste) to a test agent.
    • Process: The user dons a respirator and is exposed to a test substance (e.g., Bitrex (bitter taste), saccharin (sweet taste)).
    • Outcome: If the wearer detects the substance, the fit is inadequate; if not detected, the fit is adequate.

    This method is typically used for both half-mask respirators and disposable respirators such as N95s.

    Quantitative Fit Testing:
    • Method: Utilizes instrumentation to numerically measure the fit of a respirator.
    • Process: Typically involves a particle counting device or a machine that measures leakage around the mask.
    • Outcome: Provides a numerical measurement of the fit factor, which indicates the level of protection provided by the respirator.

    This method can be used for both half-face and full-face respirators. There are probe devices that can be inserted into particulate filtering facepieces as well that allow for this method to be used. 

    Which employees must meet the requirements of the Respiratory Protection Plan (be trained, medically cleared, and fit tested)?

    Any employee who is required by their employer to wear a respirator as part of their work duties falls within the scope of the OSHA’s respiratory protection requirements and this respiratory protection plan. All employers are required to assess the workplace for respiratory hazards and provide appropriate respirators for employees when necessary.

    Some employees may prefer to wear a respirator even when it is not required. Disposable N95 Respirators can be worn under the Voluntary Use policy. Employees who do not have to wear a respirator as part of their job duties, may still choose to wear a respirator.

    Employees are not required to be medically cleared and fit tested WHEN:

    • 1)They choose to voluntarily wear a disposable N95 respirator,
    • 2)And are outside the known hazardous areas where respiratory protection is required. 

    What type of circumstances would require program updates and retraining?

    The Respiratory Protection Plan should be updated as needed. A few scenarios where this would come into play includes:

    • Any change in procedures
    • A change in Program Administration
    • A new identified hazard in the workplace
    • Respirator use issues that are observed in routine audits
    • A change in the type of respirators used at a workplace (Introduction of Half Mask or Full-Face Respirators)
    • Deficiencies from program audits that show room for improvement
    • Regulatory changes

    Regular review and updating of the RPP ensure that it remains effective in protecting employees from respiratory hazards and compliant with OSHA regulations.

    Respiratory Protection Program:

    Do all elements of a respiratory protection program need to be in writing?

    Yes, all worksite-specific procedures and elements for required respirator use must be documented in writing. Not all worksites are equal. Some requirements in the OSHA Respiratory Protection Standard may not be applicable to every organization (i.e. an organization that used only disposable respirator models would not have to have procedures for changing out respirator filters).

    How often should the written respiratory protection program be updated?

    The program should be updated whenever there are changes in the workplace or in respirator use, such as new respirator choices, changes in fit testing, or changes in work operations.

    Program Administrator:

    How will the Compliance Safety and Health Officer (CSHO) determine if a person is qualified and trained to be a respirator program administrator?

    The CSHO will review the written program and interview the program administrator to assess their familiarity with the respirator standard and the use of respirators in the workplace.

    Does the standard provide a list of approved training courses for program administrators?

    No, OSHA only requires the program administrator to have sufficient training to manage the complexity of the respirator program at the worksite.

    Who is qualified to be a Program Administrator?

    There is not a discipline qualification requirement for Program Administrator.  Infection Preventionist is always a good option, but not required. The responsible person must be able to maintain the components of the program and be able to communicate with OSHA on the program. 

    Respirators:

    What is meant by the conditions of a respirator’s certification?

    Respirators are certified by NIOSH as an assembly. Conditions of certification include the limitations of use specified by NIOSH. Parts from other manufacturers or models cannot be substituted.

    How many respirator models and sizes are sufficient?

    The standard is performance-based; there must be enough models and sizes to ensure all users can achieve an acceptable fit.

    Medical Evaluation:

    Can a fit test for a respirator be performed before the initial medical evaluation has been completed?

    No, the initial medical evaluation must be conducted before fit testing to identify individuals whose health may be harmed by even the limited use of a respirator during fit testing.

    Does the medical questionnaire have to be administered by a PLHCP (Physician or other Licensed Healthcare Professional)?

    No, the standard does not specify the qualifications of the individual who administers the medical questionnaire, but the employee must be able to discuss the results with the PLHCP.

    Are physicians the only medical professionals allowed to perform medical evaluations for respirator use?

    No, various healthcare professionals can perform medical evaluations depending on the scope of practice permitted by the state’s licensing, registration, or certification agencies.

    Who is an “other Licensed healthcare professional” for purposes of reviewing medical questionnaires?

    Under the Respiratory Protection Standard (29 CFR 1910.134), an "other licensed healthcare professional" (OLHCP) is defined as a person whose legally permitted scope of practice (i.e., license, registration, or certification) allows them to independently provide or be delegated the responsibility to review and approve someone for fit testing. Review of the questionnaire does not necessarily require a medical evaluation; therefore, an MD is not always necessary.

    An OLHCP can be, but not limited to:

    • Physicians
    • Registered Nurses (RNs)
    • Physician Assistants (PAs)
    • Nurse Practitioners (NPs)

    Can an employee decline to be medically evaluated for the use of a respirator?

    No, an employee cannot refuse the medical evaluation and still use a respirator. The employer must provide a medical evaluation before the employee uses a respirator in the workplace.

    What are the recordkeeping requirements for the Medical Questionnaire?

    OSHA guidelines regarding the retention of completed Medical Questionnaires can be unclear, particularly when facility staff such as an RN or NP act as the facility’s Licensed Health Care Professional (PLHCP). It's important to note that OSHA’s confidentiality requirements specifically apply to the Medical Questionnaire itself, not the Clearance Form. The Clearance Form, which indicates an employee's medical clearance to use respiratory protection, should be kept in the employee’s training or other records according to your facility’s policies and procedures. This ensures proper documentation while maintaining the confidentiality of the Medical Questionnaire.

                What You Can Do with Completed Medical Questionnaires
    • If your medical director serves as your PLHCP:
      • Request that they retain the completed Medical Questionnaires off-site.
    • If you use an outside third-party provider as your PLHCP:
      • Ensure that the individual or organization is solely responsible for retaining the completed Medical Questionnaires off-site.
    • On-site retention by a staff PLHCP:
      • A staff member serving as the facility’s PLHCP may retain the Medical Questionnaires on-site, provided they are the only individual with access to these records and are not serving as an employee’s supervisor.
    • Third-party vendors:
      • Utilize a third-party vendor or medical professional to retain your Medical Questionnaires securely.
                What You Should Never Do with Completed Medical Questionnaires
    • Sharing with Management, Supervisors, or Employees:
      • Never share completed Medical Questionnaires with management, supervisors, or employees, as these are considered private medical records.
    • Inclusion in Personnel or Training Files:
      • Never keep completed Medical Questionnaires in an employee’s personnel or training file, or any other file that others can access.
    • Access by Non-PLHCP Staff:
      • Do not share completed Medical Questionnaires with management, the employee’s supervisor, or any other staff who are not serving as the facility's PLHCP and medical reviewer. (Note: An employee’s supervisor should never serve as the PLHCP responsible for completing or receiving Medical Questionnaires and should not have access to the information contained in these questionnaires.)
    • Leaving Documents Unsecured:
      • Never leave a completed Medical Questionnaire in a location where others might see it, such as on a desk, in an unlocked file cabinet, in a garbage can, or at the nurse’s station.

    Does the employer have to medically reevaluate the employee’s ability to wear a respirator on an annual basis?

    No, there is no annual or periodic requirement for medical reevaluation. The standard specifies four conditions that trigger medical reevaluation: when an employee reports signs or symptoms related to the ability to wear a respirator; when the PLHCP, administrator, or supervisor deems it necessary; when information from the respiratory protection program indicates a need for reevaluation; or when a change in workplace conditions substantially increases the physiological burden on the employee.

    Do respirators and surgical masks provide the same type and level of protection for the user?

    No, respirators and surgical masks serve different purposes and offer varied levels of protection. Surgical masks are primarily used for source control, safeguarding patients from healthcare workers' secretions and large droplet splashes. They are loose-fitting, disposable, and lack a tight seal to the face, thus not effectively filtering airborne particles. Consequently, they do not shield the wearer from inhaling airborne particles transmitted by coughs, sneezes, or certain medical procedures. In contrast, respirators provide a higher level of protection by forming a tight seal to the face and filtering out airborne particles, making them suitable for preventing exposure to airborne transmissible diseases.

    Fit Testing:

    How many respirators must be available for an employee to choose from when picking out their respirator?

    There must be a sufficient variety of respirator models and sizes available so that the user can select one that fits properly and is acceptable for their use.

    Can an employee wear a tight-fitting respirator with a beard or other facial hair?

    No, employees with facial hair that interferes with the sealing surface of the respirator facepiece are prohibited from wearing tight-fitting respirators when they are required.

    Does a “user seal check” qualify as a fit test?

    No, a User Seal Check is a procedure performed by the employee each time they put on the respirator to ensure it is properly sealed to their face. It is not a substitute for a fit test, which evaluates the fit of a specific type, model, and size of respirator on an individual.

    Is there a certification for a person to obtain before conducting a fit test?

    No. The OSHA standard only requires the individual conducting a fit test to be competent in the process. 

    Training:

    Does the standard specify the format or method of training?

    The standard is performance-oriented regarding training format. Employers may use any effective training method for their specific worksite as long as it covers the required topics. This could include audiovisual presentations, classroom discussions, informal talks during safety meetings, or a mix of these methods.

    Program Evaluation:

    How often should the respirator program be re-evaluated?

    Employers must review and revise the written program elements specified in paragraph (c)(1) as necessary whenever workplace conditions affecting respirator use change. There is no requirement for an annual review, but rather a review and revisions are needed as workplace conditions change. The frequency of evaluation depends on factors such as program complexity, workplace hazards, types of respirators used, variability of processes, number of respirator users, and worker experience. Employers must ensure continuous, successful implementation of all written program elements through regular review of respirator use in the workplace.

  • Resident and Resident Representative Input Resource
    Contains 1 Component(s)

    Registration is free to AHCA members.

    Registration is free to AHCA members.

    Follow the Instructions Below to Register: 
    • To avoid technical problems, use Google Chrome. 
    • Members will need to log in using their existing email and password first. 
    • Once you are logged in to the website you will be able to register by clicking the green register button at the top of the page. 
    • If you have forgotten your password click here. 
    • If you are new to the site, you can create an account here. Answer all fields on the create an account page- especially locating your company name. You can search by name or zip code. After creating an account, you will be able to register.
    Email educate@ahca.org if you need assistance. 

    © 2024 American Health Care Association. All rights reserved. Materials subject to this copyright may be photocopied or distributed for the purpose of nonprofit or educational advancement. The use, photocopying, and distribution for commercial purposes of any of these materials is expressly prohibited without the prior written permission of American Health Care Association.

  • Facility Assessment Template Letter to Family Members
    Contains 1 Component(s)

    Registration is free to AHCA members.

    Registration is free to AHCA members.

    Follow the Instructions Below to Register: 
    • To avoid technical problems, use Google Chrome. 
    • Members will need to log in using their existing email and password first. 
    • Once you are logged in to the website you will be able to register by clicking the green register button at the top of the page. 
    • If you have forgotten your password click here. 
    • If you are new to the site, you can create an account here. Answer all fields on the create an account page- especially locating your company name. You can search by name or zip code. After creating an account, you will be able to register.
    Email educate@ahca.org if you need assistance. 

    © 2024 American Health Care Association. All rights reserved. Materials subject to this copyright may be photocopied or distributed for the purpose of nonprofit or educational advancement. The use, photocopying, and distribution for commercial purposes of any of these materials is expressly prohibited without the prior written permission of American Health Care Association.

  • Love Your Neighbor: Preventing Resident-to-Resident Aggression
    Contains 2 Component(s)

    This session provides strategies for anticipating the circumstances and events that may trigger negative interactions in a diverse community of residents, offering new thinking on how to achieve an environment of healing and recovery for today, and tomorrow. Registration is $25 for AHCA/NCAL Member. Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. (No CEs)

    OBJECTIVES: At the conclusion of this training, participants will be able to:

    1. Describe the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic relative to quarantine and social distancing on psychosocial well-being;
    2. Develop a well-trained, culturally competent staff prepared to meet the behavioral health needs of a diverse and ever-changing population; and
    3. Implement effective interventions to anticipate and minimize the potential for aggression and altercations.

    INTENDED AUDIENCE: Assisted Living Communities and appropriate to all disciplines and positions.

    While there has been increasing attention to the subject of abuse prevention in long-term care, aggression between residents is rarely recognized as a significant concern. Too often, negative and aggressive physical, sexual, or verbal interactions that in any other community setting would likely be construed as unwelcome and potentially leading to physical or psychological distress are overlooked.

    The COVID-19 Pandemic has added an additional layer of stress to an already volatile environment. Heightened anxiety, depression, loneliness, and cabin fever have resulted in an increase in dissatisfaction and social unrest. This session provides strategies for anticipating the circumstances and events that may trigger negative interactions in a diverse community of residents, offering new thinking on how to achieve an environment of healing and recovery for today, and tomorrow.

    CONTENT:

    1. Review of the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the long-term care industry;
    2. Discussion on the circumstances (i.e., clinical, social) motivating social unrest and the steps
      necessary to creating an inclusive, satisfying environment; and 
    3. Strategies for proactive assessment and care planning to minimize the potential for disputes and aggressive behavior.
    If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. 
    Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. All webinars must be in your cart during the checkout process in order to receive discount.
    Additional webinars are: 
  RETURN TO HOME
NCAL AHCA