Some seniors are called upon to care for someone suffering from the swine flu, or H1N1 influenza. Many cases of the swine flu can be treated at home without complications. Seniors providing care for someone with the flu should:
- Watch for symptoms that would indicate a need for emergency treatment
- Learn safety tips for treating swine flu symptoms
- Encourage measures to help prevent the spread of H1N1
When to Seek Emergency Care for Someone Diagnosed with Swine Flu
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) September 24, 2009’s article entitled “Interim Guidance for 2009 H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu): Taking Care of a Sick Person in Your Home,” the following are warning signs that a person experiencing H1N1 flu needs immediate medical attention:
- The person is experiencing breathing difficulties or chest pain
- The person’s lips are purple or blue
- The person is unable to keep liquids down and is vomiting
- Dehydration signs are present, such as feelings of lightheadedness or dizziness upon standing, no urination, and no tears when an infant is crying
- The person appears to be having seizure activity, such as convulsions that are uncontrolled
- The person becomes confused or becomes less responsive than normal
Medications for People Experiencing H1N1 Influenza
Many healthy people who experience a bout of the swine flu recover within a few days without special anti-viral treatment, but a healthcare provider should be consulted regarding antiviral drugs if the person is high risk for complications from the flu or experiencing severe symptoms related to the flu. Anti-viral medications, such as Tamiflu or Relenza, are most effective if started within 48 hours from the start of flu-like symptoms.
If the person with the flu or close contacts are in a high risk category, they should consult their doctor regarding whether or not they should begin anti-viral treatment. People who are pregnant or who have certain chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease, or emphysema, may be at a higher risk for complications from the swine flu, including pneumonia, respiratory failure, and death.
A secondary bacterial infection, such as bacterial pneumonia, or a bacterial infection of the ear or sinuses can occur with influenza, so caregivers should be watchful of symptoms that could indicate a bacterial infection. These infections require antibiotics. People with a secondary bacterial infection may experience more severe flu-like symptoms or may appear to get better and then experience a worsening of symptoms.
A healthcare provider may give advice to treat flu symptoms with over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. The CDC does not recommend the use of aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) or aspirin-containing products in children or teenagers because of the risk of a serious illness called Reye’s syndrome. It is important to carefully read ingredient lists of any medications to avoid administering an inappropriate medication or dosages that are too high.
These medications can help to lessen the flu symptoms, but the person will still be contagious.
Home Treatment for Swine Flu Without Medications
Non-pharmacological treatments, such as using a cool-mist humidifier and nasal aspirator (bulb syringe) to clear mucus, may be recommended for children, especially those under the age of two. Other measures to help the person suffering from influenza include getting plenty of rest and drinking clear liquids, such as water, sports drinks, electrolyte replacement fluids (for infants), popsicles, gelatin, and other liquids that can help prevent dehydration.
Ways to Help Prevent the Spread of H1N1 Flu
Caregivers can help to prevent the spread of the H1N1 flu virus by:
- Ensuring that the infected person stays home and away from others until he is fever-free without the use of fever-reducing medications for at least 24 hours
- Using appropriate hand hygiene techniques and encouraging the ill person to do so as well
- Encouraging the person with the flu to cover her nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing
- Having the sick person to wear a face mask if he must be around others, if possible
- Encouraging the infected person to use separate bathroom facilities that are cleaned daily, if available
Seniors Providing Care for People with Swine Influenza
Seniors who are providing care for people with H1N1 flu can help by watching for serious symptoms, learning safety tips for the treatment of flu symptoms, and helping to prevent the spread of the swine flu to others. Seniors may also wish to read about How to Avoid a Power Struggle with a Sick Child and Caring for a Complaining or Bossy Family Member.
Readers are welcome to share any personal stories related to caring for people who have been diagnosed with H1N1 flu.
Source:
CDC web site
Katrena Wells - Katrena Wells is a RN in NC with 17 1/2 years of experience in oncology, an educator since 1995, and has taught exercise classes since ...
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