UPGRADED HOME CARE KIT
Prior to the pandemic, offices and schools go through regular fire drills. Barangays would conduct earthquake drills. Whenever there’s an incoming typhoon, we are prepped for what to do in case of floods. Households are encouraged to have a Go Bag at the ready. Basically, we’ve always been instructed to prepare for disasters.
We are now in our second year of battling with and dodging COVID-19. It sure won’t hurt to set up your own COVID-19 care unit (or kit) at home— apart from religiously following health and safety protocols in and out of the house. Here’s a checklist of some items that might come in handy in the event the virus strikes at home.
Thermometer and oximeter
We know by now to never share personal items with a person ill with COVID-19 to prevent the spread of the virus. This includes setting aside a separate thermometer so that the patient can monitor for possible fever. The patient should have his or her own pulse oximeter as well, as this helps check how much oxygen is in the blood. The “SpO2” should read 95 percent or higher, an indication of normal oxygen level. If it reads 92 percent or less, call your doctor or bring the patient to the emergency room immediately.
Cleaning, disinfecting supplies
Equip the person ill with COVID-19 with his or her own soap, dishwashing liquid and sponge, and detergent. An alcohol solution, hand sanitizer, wipes, disinfectant spray should also be right by the bedside. Remember to provide the patient with his or her own paper towels and tissues as well.
Separate trash bin
Have a dedicated trash bin for the person ill with COVID-19 and line this with a garbage bag. Use gloves when removing garbage bags and disposing their trash. Wash your hands thoroughly and disinfect after handling your patient’s trash.
Air purifier
Air purifiers with HEPA filters, when used in confined spaces, are said to lessen the risk of airborne contaminants including the coronavirus. When buying an air purifier, consider the size of the room where you’ll be placing it because its effectiveness also relies on the size of room it is designed for.
Video monitor
Baby monitors are not just for little ones. You may want to install a baby monitor with camera and audio in your isolation room so you can easily see
A laptop or tablet will help a patient get in touch with loved ones while in isolation. how your patient is doing without you having to actually go inside the room.
On a budget? All you need is your current phone, an old smartphone, a baby monitor app such as Cloud Baby Monitor or Baby Monitor 3G and a secure WiFi connection. Download your chosen app to both phones and simply follow the on-screen instructions on how to set them up. You will then be able to immediately check if your patient needs food, water or assistance.
Oxygen tank
While this is optional given that it’s costly, you might want to consider getting a portable oxygen tank just to be ready for any worst case scenario. Before going ahead and proceeding to purchase one, however, it is best to consult with your doctor first on how to properly use an oxygen source.
Mini fridge
Hydration and nutrition are key to those afflicted with COVID-19. A small portable fridge might be a nice addition to your isolation room at home. Stock up your mini fridge with water, fresh fruit juices and fruits to encourage your patient to hydrate. Plus, your patient would surely appreciate the cool drinks from time to time especially given the hot weather we have these days.
Personal protective equipment
Arm whoever in your household would be assigned to attend to the patient’s needs with a personal protective equipment (PPE). Aside from a good face mask and face shield, your PPE should include disposable surgical gloves. After attending to the person ill with COVID-19, the assigned caregiver should carefully remove and properly dispose of his or her PPE and wash
An oximeter has become an essential nowadays.