As we pull together as a community in the midst of the Coronavirus epidemic, it’s important to be aware of some basic “do’s and don’t’s” that involve personal health habits. Central Carolina Hospital has specific information to share that involves hygiene and hospital visits.
Beginning with hospital trips, first, determine the gravity of your situation. If you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately or go directly to the emergency room. If possible, at the earliest opportunity, let hospital personnel know if your emergency involves symptoms that could be related to COVID-19, so that they can make the appropriate provisions.
If you have a medical event that is non-emergency but could be related to Coronavirus, make sure you let hospital, primary care or urgent clinic personnel know in advance that you are experiencing symptoms. As in the case of emergency rooms, this will allow providers to properly prepare for your visit and take the necessary precautions to keep others from being infected or exposed.
In terms of “everyday” practices, here’s what CCH recommends:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently-touched objects and surfaces, including phone, computer, remote controls and doorknobs.
- Wash your hands often, with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
- Use an alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and water are not readily available.
- Always wash your hands with soap and water when your hands are visibly dirty.
- Practice social distancing behaviors, including working from home, avoiding public gatherings and unnecessary travel, and maintaining a distance of approximately six feet from others when possible.
CCH has also released information about the specific measures the organization is taking in response to the Coronavirus epidemic. You can learn more about Central Carolina Hospital’s COVID-19 Protocols by clicking this link.
