In response to the state of emergency related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the department adopted emergency rules under RCW 34.05.350 on June 23, 2020, to amend and suspend portions of WAC 388-97-1760. The emergency rules remained in effect until May 7, 2022. The following rule was in effect during that time:

(1) The nursing home must maintain a process for quality assessment and assurance. The department may not require disclosure of the records of the quality assessment and assurance committee except in so far as such disclosure is related to ensuring compliance with the requirements of this section.

(2) The nursing home must ensure the quality assessment and assurance process:

(a) Seeks out and incorporates input from the residents and resident representatives; and

(b) At a minimum, reviews adverse events and infection control.