CHS Pharmacy News

October 2025

Business Hours

Normal business hours are 9 AM – 5:30 PM M-F, and 9 AM – 3PM Saturday and Closed on Sunday
*Emergency services available 24/7/365

Respiratory Illnesses Updates***

As respiratory virus season begins, long-term care facilities must stay alert to protect residents and maintain safe staffing. COVID-19 cases are declining but remain elevated in older adults. Flu activity is low but expected to rise in October, and RSV poses risks for those with chronic conditions.

Vaccination is critical. Updated COVID-19 boosters are recommended for all residents and staff. Annual flu shots are essential, especially high-dose versions for those 65 and older. RSV vaccines are advised for residents 75 and older and those with underlying health issues. Staff education helps improve vaccine uptake.

Infection control measures should be reinforced, including hand hygiene, masking when symptomatic, and visitor screening. Facilities should monitor for symptom clusters, ensure ventilation systems are functioning, and be ready to isolate if needed.

Nurses should watch for atypical symptoms such as confusion or fatigue and support hydration, nutrition, and mobility. Educating residents and families about vaccines and policies is important. Staffing plans should account for potential illness-related absences.

To prepare, schedule vaccination clinics, review outbreak protocols, and coordinate with public health agencies. Staying proactive will help protect both residents and staff this season.

Medication Spotlight: Amiodarone

Amiodarone is a Class III antiarrhythmic used for serious ventricular arrhythmias and atrial fibrillation. It stabilizes heart rhythm by prolonging repolarization and increasing the refractory period.

It can be given orally or IV, with close ECG monitoring during initiation. Nurses should watch for QT prolongation and educate patients to report symptoms like cough, fatigue, or vision changes.

Routine checks of thyroid, liver, and lung function are essential due to risks of toxicity. Avoid grapefruit juice, which can affect drug levels. Long half-life means effects and side effects may persist, requiring ongoing monitoring.

1. CDC. Viral Respiratory Pathogens Toolkit for Nursing Homes. September 11, 2025.
2. CDC. 2025–2026 Respiratory Disease Season Outlook. August 25, 2025.
3. CDC. Interim Guidance for Influenza Outbreak Management in Long-Term Care and Post-Acute Care Facilities.
4. CDC. Testing and Management Considerations for Nursing Home Residents with Acute Respiratory Illness Symptoms.
5. Healthline. Should You Get a Flu Shot This Fall? Here’s What Experts Think. September 20, 2025.
6. RiverBender.com. IDPH Issues Fall Vaccine Guidance and COVID-19 Standing Order. September 23, 2025.
7. AAFP. Influenza, RSV and COVID-19 Vaccines in Primary Care Offices: 2025 Update.
8. CMS. QSO-25-11-NH: Long-Term Care Facility Acute Respiratory Illness Reporting Requirements. December 31, 2024.
9. Texas Health and Human Services. Infection Prevention and Control in Nursing Facilities.
10. CDC. Getting Your Immunizations for the 2024–2025 Fall and Winter Virus Season.