SHILLONG: In the midst of the state witnessing a daily surge in COVID-19 cases, the state government has issued a slew of guidelines for management of asymptomatic and mild symptomatic cases under home quarantine as well as in hospitals.
For patients at home
The state government, through a statement on Friday, has directed patients to wear masks all the time, and after eight hours, discard the same. “Disinfect used mask with one per cent sodium hypochlorite,” the statement added.
The government has also directed patients to confine themselves to a single room, while also directing the latter to take rest, drink a lot of fluids, maintain hand hygiene and refrain from sharing personal items with others. “Self-monitor daily temperature and report if any symptom is developed,” the order said.
For caregivers
The state government has directed caregivers to strictly adhere to strict hand hygiene before and after coming in contact with patient’s belongings. “Use gloves while handling items used by the patient,” the order said.
The caregivers have also been directed to wear masks at all times and refrain from touching the front portion of the mask. “Discard the mask after use and perform hygiene after mask disposal,” the statement said.
The order also states that a caregiver should maintain a one-metre distance from the patient.
While directing a caregiver to provide food at the patient’s room, the order also stated that the caregiver can wash used utensils with soap/detergent water while wearing gloves.
“The caregiver and all close contacts will self-monitor their health by checking daily temperature and report if any symptoms develop,” the state government’s order said.
For Corona Care Centres
The state government has directed health officials at the Corona Care Centres, who are handling patients, to wear PPE, take precautions while in contact, and maintain strict hand hygiene.
“Monitor blood pressure/temperature/pulse rate/respiratory rate and SPO2 every12 hours or whenever patient complains,” the government’s order said.
In case of symptomatic patients, the government order has directed health officials to administer Tab PCM 500 mg 1 tab sos if temperature exceeds 99.70F.
For patients with cough symptoms, the government has directed the officials to administer two tablespoons of cough syrup three times a day.
Along with adequate fluid intake, the health officials have also been directed to administer antibiotic (Tab Azithromycin 500 mg) for 5 days.
When to refer to COVID Hospital?
The state government has directed patients to consult a doctor if the latter complains of breathing difficulty or persistent chest pain. The patients can also see a doctor if the temperature exceeds 38o C.
Patients can also be referred to a hospital if there are “bluish discoloration of lip/face, mental confusion, slurred speech, weakness or numbness in face or any limb” being reported.