The number of flu cases nationwide plummeted during the last flu season, but new CDC data shows the flu is making a comeback in the U.S. Many of the confirmed cases of flu are influenza A (H3N2). This is a variant virus that was first found in humans in 2011. Common symptoms include lack of energy, lack of appetite, coughing, and fever.
You suspect your dad has the flu, and his health requires him to be extremely careful. He doesn’t want to be hospitalized, but he needs medical attention. Have you talked to his doctor about home health care nurses?
What Can Home Health Care Nurses Do?
The flu isn’t something to take lightly. If your dad has chronic health issues, the inflammation caused by the flu can cause issues like septic shock. The flu can also lead to pneumonia. Your dad needs to take it easy, take any medications his doctor prescribes, and drink plenty of fluids.
If your dad’s flu symptoms require IV fluids, he can have a nurse insert the IV line and administer those medications. Nurses can take care of injections and manage medications for your dad.
Your dad’s doctor wants his vitals recorded and reported to the doctor’s office during the day. A home health care nurse can take his pulse, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation numbers. If the nurse feels there are new issues while monitoring your dad’s health status, the doctor is alerted to consider changes to the care plan.
The Benefits to Home Health Care
Your dad is exposed to germs in the hospital, but that’s just one of the benefits he gains with home health care. When you’re sick, you want to be comfortable. Being in a strange hospital room with a mattress that’s not yours and unfamiliar noises is difficult.
At home, your dad knows the sounds. His mattress and pillow are familiar and comforting to him. He’ll find it easier to rest when he’s in a comfortable, familiar space. But, he’s supported by nurses to ensure his medical needs are met.
Talk to Your Dad’s Doctor and Call an Agency
Arrange for nurses to monitor your dad’s oxygen levels and vital signs, make sure he takes medications correctly, and talk with his doctor about his current symptoms. With home health care services, your dad has the medical care he needs at home and not in a hospital where he might be exposed to additional germs. Call now to schedule home health care services.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/index.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/swineflu/variant/h3n2v-cases.htm
Home Care San in Diego, CA by Innovative Healthcare Consultants 