Teamwork at Ashland

When you talk to Beth Price, executive Director of Ashland Nursing and Rehabilitation in Ashland, Virginia, it becomes immediately apparent that she is a powerhouse of positive energy. But, she eagerly makes it clear that it’s her “phenomenal team” that is responsible for all of the great things going on at the care center.

Of course, COVID-19 has presented challenges that change daily, but if anyone can handle it, it’s the Ashland team! Angela McClain, director of nursing, Kathy Godard, and Beth are continually doing town hall meetings at the care center to ensure that staff are up to date on new developments. Of course, this means repeating the information from one unit to another, and also on all three shifts. The management team at Ashland is appreciative of the support they receive from Consulate Health Care’s corporate office, and have been implementing the guidance with great attention to detail.

“When life gives you lemons, turn them into lemonade.” That’s exactly what Ashland has done as a result of the pandemic, as they have taken some of the new restrictions associated with COVID-19 and turned them into positive new activities. For instance, no visitors are permitted in the care center, but Ashland is using Facetime and Skype to keep families connected with their loved ones in the care center.  The staff and residents have also added some fun to the frequent handwashing requirements by singing favorite songs with the residents while washing hands. The activities department has taken their show on the road, as they are visiting residents one-on-one, and bringing a cart of fun activities to each resident. The care center is now doing laundry for all of the residents, and they have got it working like a well-oiled machine already! These are just a few examples of how Ashland has adapted to the changes, and they continue to come up with new ideas.

The tight community of Ashland has also been a blessing to the care center. Situated approximately 22 miles north of Richmond, the close-knit community is very supportive of the care center. Community volunteers have sewn 100 face masks, and plan to drop off 300 more! The chief of police has given his personal cell phone number to the management team, and Hanover Emergency Management has been calling every other day to check in with the care center.

Beth said that during these times, “the only way is to be positive.” That attitude is paying off, and we will all breathe a collective sigh of relief when the pandemic is in the rear-view mirror.