Understanding the Flu

With some illnesses, the symptoms appear gradually.  With the flu, symptoms occur very quickly and intensely.  Usually, the worst of these symptoms last from three to five days, although in high-risk clients they may last much longer.  Here are the symptoms to watch out for in your clients (and yourself):

• A fever, usually higher than 101˚ F,  but sometimes reaching as high as 106˚F!
• A persistent sore throat.
• Chills.
• Extreme feelings of weakness and/or fatigue.
• Body aches, generally in the head, back, and limbs.
• A painful dry cough.
• Flushed, warm skin and watery red eyes.
• A runny or stuffy nose.

Using Infection Control to Prevent the Flu

Contact Precautions: Gloves and gown must be worn for all contact with the client and the client’s environment.

Droplet Precautions: A mask must be worn within 3 feet of the client.

Standard Precautions: Use basic infection control guidelines as you perform your daily work. Washing your hands.  Using protective equipment as needed and handle infectious waste material (including used tissues) properly.

Respiratory Hygiene & Cough Etiquette: This precaution requires that anyone (staff, clients, visitors, family members) with a cough or cold symptoms to cover their noses and mouths with a tissue or the inside of the elbow when coughing or sneezing.  All tissues must be properly disposed after one use. Be sure to make tissues and waste baskets conveniently available to yourself and others during cold and flu season.