Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have gone to great lengths to make sure you are safe from this, or any other illness for that matter. Having worked in the operating room for twelve years, I know a thing or two about infection control. I’m grateful to have had that experience, and it strongly influences my massage practice to this day. So, here is what we know, and how we have integrated these principles into our work.
First, immunizations, as well as the consistent and appropriate use of infection control practices, will reduce the chance of transmission. The goal is to keep from spreading cooties (that’s a technical term!) from client to client, client to staff, staff to client, and staff to staff. I am fully vaccinated and we are a low volume clinic, seeing one client at a time.
The basic elements of good infection control procedures include:
- Risk assessment of both the client and health care provider before treatment begins
- Hand hygiene performed with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub before and after each contact
- Environmental Controls including:
- Cleaning of equipment that is used with each client (e.g., massage table, hot stones, Graston tools, cups)
- Cleaning of the environment including washing and storage of uniforms and linens, as well as ventilation controls (CO2 monitoring and HEPA air filtration) in each treatment room
- Administrative policies and procedures including education, immunizations, and respiratory etiquette for both staff and clients
- Sufficient and appropriate PPE including, for example, masks and gloves
You have a role to play as well. Please do not book an appointment or come to our office if you are sick or unable to comply with masking or hand hygiene precautions. We recommend washing your hands before and after treatment. We will be asking about recent travel and signs and symptoms of infection as well as your vaccination status before your appointment begins.
PPE is used to prevent exposure by creating a barrier. Due to the fact that SARS-CoV-2 is an airborne, easily transmitted respiratory disease we will continue wearing an N-95 mask - even though we are fully vaccinated - to ensure everyone's health and safety. We will require all clients to wear a mask while they are in our establishment. No exceptions will be made to this policy! Lastly, I will wear gloves if there is contact with mucous membranes (intra-oral work), but not during the massage of intact skin.
Cleaning and disinfection of equipment is performed between clients as well as at the beginning and end of each day with hospital-grade disinfectants. We have and will continue to adhere to the CDC and OSHA guidelines, as well as industry guidelines provided by Arizona State Board of Massage Therapy, the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) and the Association of Bodywork and Massage Professionals (ABMP).
At Asclepieion Massage Therapy, we practice “the art and science of healing bodywork.” If you have any questions or need further clarification about the "art" or the "science," don’t hesitate to give us a call. Because your health is our number one priority.
Book online or give us a call at 520-355-0819 if you would like to make an appointment.
Arizona MT-24692
