The ministry has told in new guidelines that during the corona virus epidemic, what should be taken care of by a patient and his family members. First it is important to know what are the asymptomatic cases. This includes cases that are not experiencing any symptoms.
The patient’s oxygen saturation level should be more than 93%. The second is mild cases, in which the patient experiences symptoms of upper respiratory tract without fever and shortness of breath and should also have an oxygen saturation level of more than 93%.
Guidelines for home isolation
- Patients referred by a doctor who have no symptoms or mild symptoms
- In such cases, there should be adequate facilities at their residence for self-isolation and quarantining the family members.
- The caregiver has had both vaccines and should be available 24×7
- There should be better communication between the caregiver and a medical officer
- Elderly patients above 60 years of age and those suffering from chronic critical diseases will be allowed on the request of the doctor.
- Those suffering from diseases like HIV or cancer will be allowed only after proper evaluation
- One patient is allowed home isolation, all other family members have to follow home quarantine guidelines
What are the guidelines for patients
The patient should isolate himself from other members of the household. Patients should stay in designated rooms and away from other people in the house. The patient should stay in a well-ventilated room with cross ventilation and windows should be kept open for fresh air to come in.
guidelines to protect against corona
The patient should take plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids. Hands should be washed frequently with soap and water for at least 40 seconds. The patient should not share utensils or other items with other people in the household. Clean frequently touched surfaces (tabletops, door knobs, handles, etc.) in the room with soap/detergent and water. The patient’s corona symptoms should be monitored and any worsening of symptoms should be reported immediately.
Guidelines for avoiding contact with the patient
Avoid direct contact with patient’s body fluids (respiratory, oral secretions including saliva). Use disposable gloves when handling the patient. Avoid sharing used utensils, food, drinks, towels or bedding. Food should be provided to the patient in his room. His belongings and utensils should be cleaned with soap/detergent and water wearing gloves.
Guidelines for using masks
Patients should always use triple layer medical masks. If the mask gets wet or becomes dirty in appearance they should discard the mask after or before 8 hours of use. The patient and caregiver in the room should use an N-95 mask. Dirty masks should be cut into pieces and thrown in a paper bag for at least 72 hours.
Guidelines for treatment in home isolation
Be in communication with the medical officer treating the patients. The patient should continue with other medicines after consultation with the medical officer. Patients should take fever, runny nose and cough remedies as needed. Patients can gargle with warm water or take steam thrice a day. Consult a doctor before taking the fever medicine paracetamol.
when to go to the doctor
If the patient’s symptoms are becoming severe, immediate medical attention should be sought. These may include- 100 degree fever, difficulty in breathing, oxygen deprivation, persistent chest pain and severe fatigue.
When to end home isolation
The patient can end his home isolation when he has completed seven days and has no fever for the last three days. However, even after this, he will have to continue wearing the mask. There is no need for re-testing after the period of home isolation is over.
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Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. It cannot in any way be a substitute for any medicine or treatment. Always contact your doctor for more details.
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