Jonquil Siepman, a communications consultant for Hospice, said frail elderly people living with serious underlying chronic and life-limiting illnesses are most at risk from the virus.<\/p>\n
\u201cGlobally we are in uncharted waters, with new findings of this pandemic daily.<\/p>
\u201cIn this uncertain time we\u2019d like to offer some advice for caring for someone with a compromised immune system,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
The organisation provided the following tips to help reduce the likelihood of a patient or caregiver becoming infected with Covid-19:<\/p>\n
Social distancing<\/p>\n
During the pandemic patients and caregivers need to ensure that they do not come into contact with anyone who may have been exposed to or who is carrying the virus.<\/p>\n
This includes people with a recent travel history or those who display flu-like symptoms.<\/p>\n
Increased hygiene<\/p>\n
Patients and caregivers must wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and use hand sanitiser frequently.<\/p>\n
Ideally, the carer should wear gloves when interacting with the patient and these should be disposed of immediately, followed by hand washing.<\/p>\n
Covering your mouth and nose<\/p>\n
Patients, family members and caregivers are urged to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when they cough or sneeze.<\/p>\n
Ideally, masks should be worn by the patient and caregiver and used tissues are to be disposed of as soon as possible.<\/p>\n
Touching<\/p>\n
Although patients require care, caregivers and patients should stop all unnecessary contact between each other.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is a good idea to have a backup plan should you as the caregiver contract the virus.<\/p>\n
\u201cHave someone who would be able to take over duties and communicate with that person often to ensure they understand what care is required,\u201d said Siepman.<\/p>\n
Siepman assured the community that Hospice\u2019s staff are taking the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of patients.<\/p>\n
\u201cEach staff member is monitored very closely for signs or symptoms of the virus,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
In the event that a Hospice staff member falls ill, a backup team is on standby to provide care and assistance.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
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