The word corona and covid-19 has become fearsome. With timely detection and monitoring, and depending on the individual needs of a patient, there are many examples where patients have recovered at home with proper attention and care. Pritika Singh, CEO of Pritika Singh, CEO, Prayag Hospital & Research Pvt. Ltd, shares with you some tips if you are looking after a covid patient at home.
The first thing to do is not panic as studies show that it is controllable at home and there is data to support this. Recovery rates are on the rise and if one monitors their oxygen levels and detects this on time, there is hope! It also takes a toll on the caregiver, and they need to remain calm, compassionate and be extremely patient at the same time while handling corona patients.
As much as COVID affects one’s physical health, it also takes a toll on mental health. It is equally important to take care of that as well. Mental health is of utmost importance. Those who are down with COVID must practice OM chanting or listen to it. Ensuring good sleep for proper recovery is equally important. Caregivers should try to establish a good sleep routine for the patients. If comfortable, one can also try deep relaxation binaural beats for sleeping.
One should keep the patient engaged through various hobby activities, reading self-help books or watching spiritual movies. Introducing some form of spirituality in their lives is also a good idea. Chanting mantras, watching spiritual cinema and documentaries, reading uplifting books, these can help in keeping one’s spirits up. Opt for audiobooks, if reading takes a toll, there are different ways to keep one engaged and try new options. Sound therapy is a great idea too! This is available online as well. Remember, we are all in this together and all facing the same thing. A few may take it more harshly and a few people are stronger. It is with constant love, support, and help that we will get by.
Another crucial factor is to stay away from the news to keep any negativity at bay. If you feel the need, do not hesitate in getting professional help from a psychologist, psychiatrist, and healers. There’s nothing to be ashamed of about that. This is the time to talk about it and seek help!
Understand that COVID fatigue will set in and it takes a massive toll on the body. A patient who is recovering should refrain from heavy exercise and physical activity. One can take up short walks within their room and should do deep breathing for at least five to seven minutes. Most times, patients do not feel like eating, but a good and balanced diet is crucial during and post the illness. Ensure a high protein and high-carb diet with electrolyte drinks, vitamin D, and B12 supplements on the side.
The post-recovery phase is also crucial, where one should continue to follow some of the healing guidelines. Do not pass on your medication to anyone. It is the first and the foremost thing everyone must ensure. We understand every human is different, and their bodies are unique. What might have worked for one individual can prove fatal for someone else? There could be side effects and other health hazards. If you have leftover medications, send them to NGOs, front-line workers, and hospitals that need them in treating other patients.
One last tip I would like to give from my personal experience is to continue to wear a mask in the common spaces for at least a week post quarantine to be on the safer side.
