As noted in MGMA's COVID-19 Medical Practice Reopening Checklist, the implementation of a temperature-check policy for staff as they come to your facilities is important.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that temperature checks are one of many methods that employers can use to help screen for potential COVID-19 infections, inncluding social distancing of six feet from others and physical barriers to minimize exposures from individuals who come with close contact.
Specific considerations for such a policy include:
- Confirming a temperature lower than 100.4o F (38.0o C) and that an employee is not experiencing coughing or shortness of breath.
- Visually inspecting an employee for signs of illness (e.g., flushed cheeks or fatigue).
- Screening staff do not need to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) if they can maintain a distance of six feet. A physical barrier, such as a glass or plastic window or partition, can help protect the screener's face and mucous membranes from potential respiratory droplets.
- A screener should wear disposable gloves during temperature checks if reaching around a partition or through a window. Make sure the screener’s face stays behind the barrier at all times during the screening.
- If performing temperature checks on multiple individuals, the screener should use a clean pair of gloves for each employee and that the thermometer has been thoroughly cleaned in between each check.
- If disposable or non-contact thermometers are used and you did not have physical contact with an individual, you do not need to change gloves before the next check. If non-contact thermometers are used, clean and disinfect them according to manufacturer’s instructions and facility policies.
This sample form allows you to record employee temperatures in accordance with policies regarding COVID-19 recovery.
