During the current pandemic, it's unquestionably important that we continue to provide for those who rely on care in a strict, safe and sensible manner. For those who are currently working as Care Givers whether that be for a company, privately or for a friend/relative; recent weeks have forced a change in healthcare processes in order to reduce the risk of infection.
Currently, the safest form of care is home care, which dramatically reduces the risk of infection from person-to-person transmission. When compared to the likes of a care home, with a high volume of people living, entering and returning. This dramatically reduces the number of people that the client is exposed to – and for visiting care services, Independent Living have minimised the number of Care Givers required to provide for each client to ensure person to person contact is at its lowest possible level.
What is Independent Living doing to protect clients during COVID-19?
In many circumstances, those who rely on care are the most vulnerable of the population. That’s why Independent Living has taken strict measures to ensure we are protecting our clients in these uncertain times. This article outlines how to provide safe care at home during COVID-19 using the current recommended guidelines from healthcare and virology professionals across the world.
Wearing PPE
Whilst we provide the care our clients desperately need; our Care Givers are using a range of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to protect both themselves and their clients. The recommended PPE items to use whilst providing care are:
Disposable plastic gloves
Disposable plastic apron
Fluid resistant surgical mask
Eye Protection such as clear plastic goggles or a visor
Disposing of PPE
There are currently two different directives for disposing of PPE.
1) Non COVID-19 support visit – In this instance our Care Givers will dispose of their PPE in the usual manner, this is simply placing their PPE in your general household waste bin.
2) Confirmed or suspected COVID-19 – in this instant the Care Giver will securely store the PPE waste in disposal rubbish bags. They will then place these bags in another bag. They will tie this bag securely and keep it separate from other waste. This waste must be set aside for at least 72 hours before being put in the usual external household bin for non-recyclable waste. The Care Giver will make a note of the date and ensure it is disposed of correctly.
Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces
As the virus can remain on external surfaces, regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces can help keep your home safe. That’s why our Care Givers will ensure they follow all hand hygiene guidance and advice prior to entering your home and before leaving.
Minimising number of carers to clients
Independent Living will minimise as much as possible the number of Care Givers who may provide care and support to you. During the current pandemic this is absolutely necessary to ensure the risk of transmission is reduced as much as possible. This is one of the reasons that’s home care continues to be the safest form of care.
Paying close attention to those we are caring for
We are closely monitoring those we are caring for to make sure that any potential symptoms are reported and acted upon. We can then take the necessary precautions to ensure any risks are diminished at source. The key symptoms to look out for are a high temperature and a new, continuous cough. You can find all the symptoms of Coronavirus here.
Homecare – The safest form of care
Home care services help clients with a range of disabilities self-isolate safely and comfortably in their homes. If you are looking for the safest form of care for yourself or a loved one during the current pandemic – trust Independent Living. We have and will continue to do everything in our power to stick to healthcare safety guidelines and keep our clients safe.
01332 799292
info@independentliving-care.co.uk
