Although PTC is instituting a series of recommended procedures and policies to prevent the COVID-19 virus from reaching the campus, we must be prepared for the possibility of a member of the campus community contracting the virus. The goal at that point is to contain the virus and prevent further spread. Analysis of daily health checks to locate trends on individuals who were symptomatic and/or tested positive for COVID-19 will help in preventing further spread of the virus. Isolation and quarantining of exposed and affected individuals will also help contain spread.
Isolation and Quarantine
Employees and students who do not pass either the health screening questionnaire or temperature check will immediately be separated from those who are still going through the screening process. These individuals will then be counseled on the next steps they should take.
Non-Campus Residents
Individuals who are not living on campus will be given guidance on seeing a healthcare provider to determine whether or not they have contracted the COVID-19 virus. They will then be required to leave the campus to attend to their health needs.
Campus Residents
Students who do not pass the health screening will be guided through quarantine procedures. The college has designated a number of college-controlled off-campus apartments for quarantine of campus residents who may have the COVID-19 virus. These apartments, marked as private or restricted access, will be stocked with thermometers, sanitizing wipes, tissues, soap, hand sanitizer, and other toiletries. If someone must be quarantined, a health monitoring plan that follows CDC guidance will be activated. This monitoring process includes protocols for transfer to the quarantine area and health facilities, if needed, as well as meal delivery, counseling services, retrieval of medication/hygiene supplies, and any other basic assistance.
Before moving into on-campus housing, students must submit a Student Safety Plan that provides all the information the Resident Life staff would need to launch the isolation process and ultimately ensure the student’s return to home (or a designated location) for care and recovery. In addition to emergency contact information, the Student Safety Plan flags the student’s transportation status so that the staff can quickly secure transportation to the off-site quarantine apartment or medical facilities if an individual does not have a vehicle.
Although quarantining protocols will remain in place for students who become ill until their Student Safety Plan can be implemented for their return home for care, the targeted period for transitioning out of quarantine is 24 hours.