The truth of the matter is that we may have to deal with living with a household member who has COVID-19. If that happens, we have to be responsible and follow guidelines to ensure the virus is contained. The CDC has created guidelines on how to contain the disease and it’s a big list! The following describes the main points.

• Understand and follow healthcare provider’s orders for medications and care
• Monitor the patient’s symptoms – call the healthcare provider if symptoms get worse
• Ensure household members stay in a different room including separate bathrooms
• Prohibit visitors
• Reduce taking care of pets
• Ensure there is proper air flow
• Perform hand hygiene frequently
• Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth
• Ensure the patient wears a face mask
• Wear a disposable face mask and gloves when touching the patient
• Avoid sharing any household items with patient
• Clean all ‘high touch’ surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, toilets, and phones
• Wash laundry thoroughly and all the time
• Place all disposable gloves, face masks and other contaminated items in a lined container before disposing

This may be all too much for a family member to handle, especially when children are involved. Home care can definitely reduce this list down, and help make this time a little easier. You just have to reach out to ask for help.

For more information, please visit the NAHC (National Association for Home Care & Hospice) website.