The global COVID-19 pandemic presents various clinical symptoms, mainly fever, dry cough, and fatigue, often with lung involvement. While the World Health Organization provides infection control guidelines, elderly residents in long-term care institutions (LTCI), many with chronic illnesses, often rely on family members for health decisions. Vaccination remains the most effective method of disease prevention.
This project collaborated with government health units to create a vaccination process for LTCI residents, considering their limited mobility and bedridden status. To minimize the risk of infection during hospital visits and reduce institutional staff burden, two LTCI in southern Taiwan worked with their contracted hospitals to formulate a vaccination plan. The process included advocacy, surveys on willingness, implementation, and observation, over three months. Out of 141 residents, 119 families consented to the first dose, achieving an 84.4% vaccination rate. However, after the first dose, 35 residents (29.4%) experienced high fevers, and 3 (2.5%) had severe adverse reactions. As a result, families of 38 residents refused the second dose, failing to meet the 80% target set by health authorities. Additionally, 81% of LTCI in southern Taiwan did not meet the second-dose target, highlighting the need for improved vaccine promotion.It is crucial to continue encouraging vaccination in LTCI, regardless of prior infection or vaccination status, as COVID-19 variants pose a reinfection risk. Educating families and holding regular sessions on infection prevention and vaccination can foster positive attitudes and informed consent for vaccination.

Authors:
Yen Ju Chen, St. Joseph Hospital, Taiwan
Pei-Yu Lee, Cheng Shiu University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
Shu-Lan Chen, St. Joseph Hospital Nursing Home, Taiwan

About the Presenter(s)
Yen Ju-chen holds a master’s degree from the Department of Nursing at Fu Jen Catholic University, with a specialization in clinical nursing and nursing management.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

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