Updated March 30, 2022

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We are taking every necessary precaution to ensure the safety and health of our participants and research staff due to the global spread of COVID-19. As we begin to schedule study visits, we are committed to doing so as responsibly and safely as possible. We have modified certain policies and procedures after careful consideration of the situation, and accounting for newly introduced requirements for the safety and protection of all involved.

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Before research visits

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All surfaces in the clinic rooms will be cleaned and disinfected in the mornings prior to use. We expect current and prospective patients to monitor for the symptoms listed below and email us if any develop prior to the visit. All persons entering our building will be screened, during which they will have their temperature taken and be asked the following questions:

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Do you have any NEW onset of the following symptoms:

• Fever ≥ 100°F

• Cough, congestion, sore throat, runny nose, and/or shortness of breath

• Muscle aches with flu-like symptoms

• Loss/decrease of taste or smell

• Chills or shaking chills

• Headache, diarrhea, nausea, decreased appetite, or any GI symptoms

Have you:

• Tested COVID-19 positive in the last 14 days

• Had contact with a person quarantined or confirmed with COVID-19 in the past 14 days.

 

If a participant responds “yes” to any of these questions, we ask the patient to call us, and the visit will be postponed and rescheduled to a later date. In addition, patients will be referred to the community health hotline at 847.432.5849.

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During research visits

 

The participant will be instructed to wear a mask/face covering over their nose and mouth at all times when in the building. Masks will be provided at the building entrances for anyone who arrives without one. Research team members will wear a standard mask, gloves, and face shield during all patients interactions. On the day of the research visit, patients will be screened upon arrival for temperature and the questions above. Adult patients will not be allowed any visitors, while minor patients may have one parent/caregiver present who will also need to pass the screening and must wear a face covering. For the majority of the visit, we will limit the number of people in the clinic room to two. A third person will be allowed in the room only when necessary. We will do our best to maintain 6 ft of separation from each other.

 

After research visits

 

To maintain optimal environmental hygiene, visits will be scheduled with at least an hour in between to allow for adequate cleaning time. Exam table paper will be removed after each patient, and all surfaces in the room will be cleaned with disinfectant wipes, allowing for the full contact time necessary. Once the room is disinfected, our staff will remove and dispose of their gloves and perform hand hygiene.

 

We promise to continue doing all we can to help ensure that each and every patient feels safe and supported.