
I was tested for COVID-19 today. Not because I had symptoms or because I was around anyone who had a confirmed case or because I travelled to a “hot spot” area. I was tested because I care about my community.
As an employee of Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community, I participated in a Point Prevalence Survey testing for COVID-19. A PPS entails testing all individuals in a designated area of a facility, whether or not they have symptoms, on one day. The mass testing VMRC conducted with residents in its assisted living, long-term care and short-term rehab communities, employees working in those areas and employees working in independent living communities is critical for our Life Plan/continuing care community to begin the process of reopening and phasing into limited visitation.
When I arrived on campus, I was greeted by a group of my colleagues at the entrance to the test site. They confirmed I had my paperwork completed. (This conversation actually took longer than the test.)
As I drove up to the test area, members of the Virginia Air National Guard were testing my coworkers. Paramedics with the Virginia Guard are trained to conduct large scale testing. Two Guard members approached my car, received my test packet and explained the procedure. In less than 10 seconds, the test was completed. It felt as if someone had pinched my nose. That was all I felt.
The Guard’s professionalism and courtesy made me appreciate their service. And, I told them that. I am grateful for these qualified and trained professionals who can conduct large scale testing in our communities in a pandemic. Test results can be used to intervene early in outbreaks and begin the process of re-opening establishments like retirement communities so that residents may have limited visits with their families.
Was I apprehensive about getting tested? Yes, because I didn’t know what to expect. I also don’t like getting shots, having blood drawn or any other procedure that makes me uncomfortable. Was it something I’d do again? If necessary, yes.
I’m a part of the population that heeds recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s and Gov. Northam’s orders about wearing face masks. It’s not a “sacrifice.” A face mask is part of my wardrobe now, and I’ve grown to choose one to match my outfit. Wearing a face mask makes a difference. I can make a difference because I care about my community.
Maureen Pearson
VMRC, Director of Public Relations
Recent Posts
Get Notified When We Post Content
Archives
July 2022June 2022
May 2022
April 2022
March 2022
February 2022
January 2022
December 2021
November 2021
October 2021
September 2021
August 2021
July 2021
June 2021
May 2021
April 2021
March 2021
February 2021
January 2021
December 2020
November 2020
October 2020
September 2020
August 2020
July 2020
June 2020
May 2020
April 2020
March 2020
February 2020
January 2020
December 2019
November 2019
October 2019
August 2019
July 2019
April 2019