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