Coronavirus (COVID-19) Quick Tip Guide for Caregivers
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. NEVER DISREGARD PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE OR DELAY SEEKING MEDICAL TREATMENT BECAUSE OF SOMETHING YOU HAVE READ ON OR ACCESSED THROUGH THIS WEB SITE.
The novel coronavirus named COVID-19 seems to have touched just about every corner of the Earth at this point, leaving us all scrambling for answers. We are learning new things daily about this aggressive virus.
One of the first observations made in China, where the first cases emerged more than 3 months ago now, is that this virus poses the biggest threat to compromised populations, such as the elderly and the chronically ill. Well, if you are a family caregiver, it is very likely that your loved one checks both of these boxes. So how can you keep your loved one safe?
Things You Can do To Protect your Loved One
Recent research studies from the New England Journal of Medicine show that the virus can linger in the air for up to 3 hours, live on stainless steel, plastics, and other hard surfaces for up to 72 hours or longer, and on cardboard for up to 24 hours. The virus is also able to live on clothing and hair as well. This means there are numerous opportunities to come in contact with and transmit the virus daily.
Wash Your Hands Often
This simple step cannot be emphasized enough. I am sure you have gotten the message loud and clear by now, but if you have been under a rock, I’ll tell you again. WASH YOUR HANDS.
When washing your hands, be sure to wash them with warm soapy water for a minimum of 20 seconds. Try to dry your hands with disposable paper towels, as opposed to reusing the same towel over and over, potentially recontaminating your hands.
Hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content are also acceptable for sanitizing your hands.
*Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and nose.
Change your Clothing
When returning home, remove your clothing and place them in a designated area for washing. Avoid placing coats and other clothing on bedding, couches, chairs, or other areas people frequently touch or lay down on. If you are unable to wash clothing frequently, bag clothing that has been worn outside of the home until they can be washed.
Keep your Hair Covered When Going Out
In China, when it was discovered that the virus could live in hair and be transmitted that way, many of the nurses voluntarily shaved their heads. Now, I’m not suggesting that you go to that extreme, but it would be wise to use hats, caps, hoods, or scarves to cover your hair when out and about.
Disinfect Surfaces Frequently
Try to disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily and as needed. Use your disinfectant of choice or bleach water probably diluted. These surfaces include, but are not limited to:
- Countertops
- Desks
- Coffee tables/end tables
- Light switches
- Doorknobs
- Remote controls
- Cellphones/Phones
- Handles to the refrigerator/oven/microwave
- Toilet handles
- Sinks
- Computers/Keyboards
- Bedrails
- Wheelchair/Walkers/Canes
Limit Visitors
I know this is a challenge, but please limit the number of visitors coming in and out. Utilize phones and virtual communication methods like FaceTime or other video chat apps.
Limit Your Outside Activities
Some things cannot be avoided, however, limit outings as much as possible and follow the precautions listed above when you do go out.
Keep Your Loved One at Home
With the exception of essential appointments, keep your loved one at home. If you absolutely must take him or her out, practice the social distancing guidelines of keeping at least 6 feet between them and others.
Stock up on Essentials
Disclosure: Please keep in mind that some of the links on Caregiving Gracefully are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. I link to these companies and their products because of their quality and not because of the commission I receive from your purchases. The decision is yours.
Aim to stock up on at least 4 weeks worth of supplies. Utilize delivery and/or pick-up services when available. Many grocery stores and pharmacies are reserving shopping hours for compromised individuals. Use these times provided.
Here are some items to stock up on:
- Food
- Water
- Paper goods
- Briefs/Incontinence Products (Check out 16 Incontinence Must-Haves for a full list)
- Bleach and other cleaning supplies
- Laundry Detergent
- Medications (prescription and OTC)
- Thermometer
- Emergency Wound Care Kit (Check out Top 4 Ways Caregivers Can Prevent Bedsores for a complete list)
Over-the-Counter Medications and Supplements to Have on Hand for Emergencies:
Mucinex ( For Dry Cough)
Mucinex DM ( For Product Cough)
Vick VapoRub/Topical Menthol Rubs (For Cough or Aches and Pains)
Tylenol/Acetaminophen ( For Fever or Aches and Pains)
Vitamin C (For Immune Boost)
Multivitamin ( For Immune Support)
Stool Softeners/Laxatives (Constipation)
Antiacids/Gas-X (Indigestion/Gas)
*NOTE: Conflicting data has recently emerged advising against the use of NSAIDs (Examples: Aleve, Excedrin, Motrin, Advil, Aspirin, Ibuprofen). Some medical professionals believe it may lead to worse outcomes in those individuals positive for COVID-19. At this time, there is no research to support this theory. Please, consult your provider for further guidance.
Encourage Plenty of Fluids
This relentless virus attacks the respiratory system. As a result, there is an increase in mucous production. One way to thin mucus is to drink plenty of fluids (Please follow any fluid restrictions advised by the physician). Good fluid intake also aids in the prevention of dehydration, kidney and organ health, and Urinary Tract Infection prevention.
Notify the Provider of Any Changes in Condition
If you notice:
- New or worsening cough
- Shortness of breath or visibly labored or rapid breathing
- Fever- Even if it is a low-grade fever, notify the provider. Geriatric populations do not always have a robust immune response. Therefore, even low-grade fevers may be concerning.
- Change in sleep patterns
- Lethargy
- Body Aches
- Sneezing/Runny Nose
- Decreased appetite
- Change in behaviors
- Decreased urine output
NOTE: These symptoms listed above are not necessarily an indicator of the coronavirus (COVID-19). However, early intervention with changes in condition could possibly prevent extra visits to the doctor’s office or even hospitalization, where the risk of contracting the virus are much higher. Download this free Daily Caregiver Log to document any changes.
What to Do if You Develop Symptoms
If you develop a cough, shortness of breath, or fever, notify your physician immediately for further instructions. In the meantime, wash thoroughly, keep your mouth covered with a mask or bandana, and try to find a replacement to care for your family member. If no one else is available, distance yourself as much as possible when not providing essential care, and keep your mouth covered and hands clean. Remember to cough into the bend of your elbow. It would be wise to notify your loved one’s provider as well.
Safety Warning
On a safety note, be mindful that people are using this unfortunate time to prey upon those most vulnerable. There have been reports of individuals in hazmat suits or other medical protective gear, going from door to door, under the guise of offering testing and/or support during this time of need, only to turn around and rob individuals or steal their personal information. Please, be careful.
Summary
In summary, continue to be the loving and conscientious caregiver you have always been. Get your FREE Printable Coronavirus Prevention Checklist to keep track of the information discussed above. For more helpful tips, freebies, printables and more check out my Caregiver 101 Mini-Course.
I pray that you and your family remain happy and healthy.
Be Blessed,
Stephanie
