Dozens of Coronavirus Cases Reported In Bristol Nursing Home

BRISTOL, RI — More than 60 coronavirus cases were identified at a Bristol nursing home, according to the latest data from the Rhode Island Department of Health. It was the first outbreak of the virus at Silver Creek Manor.

Kim Ciociola, the facility's administrator, said Silver Creek was one of the few nursing homes to avoid the wave of infections seen at nursing facilities across the state when the pandemic hit in the spring. Strict infection control protocols are in place, and staff are periodically tested, she said.

"Its success [in the first wave], ironically, contributed to the quick spread among staff and residents in a short period of time," Ciociola said in a statement.

Related: Hospital, Nursing Home Visitation On Hold In Rhode Island

The facility is in contact with the Department of Health and enough personal protective equipment is available, the statement continued. Plans for staffing and crisis training are in development in conjunction with the department and National Guard.

Ciociola applauded Silver Creek's staff, whom she called "smart, caring and resilient." There has not been a staffing shortage at the facility, she said. She also expressed gratitude to families and members of the community who donated food and coffee to staff, saying the small act of kindness made a big difference.

"Everyone is working and helping wherever and however they can," Ciociola said. "I am not a nurse and cannot help patients, but I can run around and get supplies where they need to be."

While administrators understand it's very stressful for families of patients, immediate updates cannot always be provided.

"No news is good news, [but if] good news changes, we will notify the family contacts immediately," the statement said. "Our first priority is to provide care and comfort for our residents."