So far in October, there have been over 9,000 positive cases of the flu. It’s not a lot, but it’s increasing. It’s not even winter, but your mom has the flu. She’s in the hospital and desperate to go home where she’s comfortable. Ask her doctor about having your mom recover at home with the help of home health care nurses.
Your mom’s doctor can go over what she needs while she recovers from the flu. Ask for specific medications that can help. Your mom may have restrictions on whether or not she can take ibuprofen or acetaminophen if she has a fever. It’s important to go over what she is allowed to use.
What Does Your Mom Need?
While recovering from the flu, your mom needs to take it easy. She needs to make sure she’s getting as much rest as her body wants. She also needs to stay hydrated, even if she doesn’t feel alert enough to drink a glass of water, broth, juice, or tea. Make sure she does.
If your mom is having a hard time with hydration or eating, her doctor may recommend an IV of fluids or electrolytes. Generally, it’s something a home health care nurse can help with. IV medications and fluids won’t require your mom to go to the hospital.
She should try to keep the congestion from building up in her lungs. Medications that help with chest congestion are important. Prescription medications can also help reduce the chances of the flu worsening. If she needs help remembering when to take another dose, her nurses help manage that.
If your mom has health issues that require her to take daily medications, make sure she continues to take them. Undoubtedly, she may need someone to remind her. If she’s having a hard time, medication administration may be needed. Ask her doctor for guidance. A home health care nurse can help ensure your mom is taking her medications.
Home health care nurses are there to make sure your mom’s getting enough oxygen and isn’t struggling to breathe. They can take measurements like blood pressure, pulse, respiration rates, and oxygen saturation levels.
Trained nurses can recognize signs of worsening health. If your mom’s flu progresses to pneumonia and additional measures are needed, her nurse will talk to her doctor to change the course of treatment. If it’s important for her to go to the hospital, her nurse, of course, can help arrange the transfer.
Talk to a Home Health Care Specialist About Your Mom’s Care Needs
Home health care is key to helping your mom avoid rehospitalization without risking your mom’s health. Arrange services by calling or filling out an online form to learn more.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Home Health Care in Tualatin, OR, please contact the caring staff at Integrity In-Home Care. Call today at (503) 660-3755.
Sources: