Keeping Clients Safe in time of Covid-19

The decision to re-open Comforting Hands Physical Therapy after 3 months of lock down was not an easy one. I had closed my private practice in late March, 2020. Physical Therapy is considered an essential service so technically, I was not required to close. However, I did not feel confident I could maximize my clients safety so I stopped seeing people. As more and more information became available about how COVID-19 is spread, I decided to re-open both my offices while implementing diligent safety and infection control procedures. After researching multiple sources, including the CDC, Health Departments of Marin and Sonoma Counties (where my offices are located), and Physical Therapy and Massage Therapy professional association websites, I developed a list of safety procedures that I follow for every client. I continue to stay current and update my procedures according to the information I can find regarding best practices.

Here are my daily practices:

1. At the beginning and end of each treatment day, I disinfect all surfaces in my offices and the bathrooms.  
2. Clients are asked to remain in the car and text me upon arrival. I call the client and together we complete a questionnaire that includes questions about travel, exposure, and symptoms. Clients who have been exposed or who have traveled and mingled with people who have not followed social distancing or worn masks are not allowed to enter the office. Exceptions are made for people who have been exposed and tested negative. Clients reporting any symptoms are not allowed to enter the office. All cancellation fees have been waived to encourage people to stay home if experiencing the slightest symptoms. 
3. Client appointments are spaced 15 minutes apart. During this time, all surfaces touched by the previous client are disinfected in the office and bathroom. All items, such as sheets, blankets and pillowcases are replaced with clean linens, after I have used hand sanitizer or washed my hands. I never touch clean linens with “dirty” hands. The windows and doors are opened to maximize air exchange with the outdoors and the room is aired out for the full 15 minutes. 
4. Masks are required at all times. If the client is wearing a mask with less than 3 layers or one that allows air exchange either above or below, I request they wear a 3-ply disposable mask that I provide. 
5. The windows in my office remain open throughout the day. Clients are offered a blanket if they are cold.  
6. A distance of 6 feet is maintained before and after all hands-on work.
7. Clients are requested to use hand sanitizer before and after their session. 
8. I wear a mask at all times. I wash my hands vigorously with soap and water for 20 seconds between clients and both before and after disinfecting surfaces. 

I hope that soon we can say goodbye to COVID-19 and it’s devastating effects on our lives. Until then, I will continue to provide dedicated service and care in the safest ways possible.