Effective Testing and PPE Supply Inventory Management Remains Crucial

Programs and Resources; Emergency Preparedness; COVID-19
 

​​COVID-19 and other unpredictable infectious agents – coupled with fluctuating demand and inconsistent supply – have created the need for skilled nursing, assisted living, and ID/DD facilities to have robust PPE and COVID-19 point of care (POC) testing inventory management programs. Surveyors are closely examining how prepared long term care facilities are to weather these unpredictable factors, even as the pandemic eases.   

The Inventory Supply Management for PPE and COVID-19 POC Testing training is a nine-module case-based learning program that incorporates technical skills with real-life examples to illustrate the importance that inventory and supply management brings to the facility during day-to-day operations and when outbreaks occur. Participants also will learn best practices for addressing common supply and demand issues.     

The program helps facilities identify how regular work week needs versus weekend or holiday needs can differ in terms of navigating changing PPE and COVID-19 testing needs. Participants will gain insight about inventory rotation to prevent waste from expired supplies and how the unique needs of stand-alone facilities differ from those of corporate chains.

Case examples engage learners in assessing situations
and identifying best practices for addressing common supply and demand issues. Participants also will learn about the CDC’s Burn Rate Calculator.    

The cost of the course is $199 for AHCA/NCAL members and $650 for non-members. The course is approved for 4.50 NAB CEs and 4.50 nursing contact hours through the Iowa Board of Nursing.  

Individuals will need to login to ahcancalED with their AHCA/NCAL username and password to register for Inventory Supply Management for PPE and COVID-19 POC Testing. For assistance obtaining usernames and passwords, members should e-mail educate@ahca.org with their name and facility contact information.   ​