
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.