Man blowing his nose.

Caring for Someone Sick With COVID at Home

Caring for someone sick with COVID in the home setting can be stressful. So much information about COVID has been distributed, and it can make us feel overwhelmed and discombobulated, especially trying to care for someone who is actually sick and is considered high-risk. Providing the right support in this situation is necessary for both the person you are caring for, but also ensuring you remain healthy.  Here are a few tips to providing the best support possible:

  • Help cover basic needs. Help the person who is sick, follow doctors’ orders and medication orders. 

  • Ensure the person drinks lots of fluids and rests as much as possible. 

  • Consider having items such as groceries, prescriptions, etc., delivered to limit community exposure. 

  • Watch for warning signs. Call the doctor if the person is getting sicker, or the illness is not developing as the doctor communicated it would. 

When to seek emergency medical care:

  • Trouble breathing

  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest

  • New confusion

  • Inability to wake or stay awake

  • Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds, depending on skin tone

Note: This is not a full list of all possible symptoms. Seek medical attention or call your healthcare provider for any symptoms that are concerning to you.

How to protect yourself:

 

  • Limit contact

  • Eat in separate areas

  • Avoid sharing personal items

  • Wear a mask and/or gloves

  • Wash hands frequently and in between contact

  • Use separate bathrooms and isolate both you and the person who is sick a much as possible

Blog by Kara Boyerkidder