What happens if the person receiving care or a person in the household displays symptoms?

Posted on March 24, 2020

The individual with symptoms should follow the self isolation guidance for 7 days from the onset of the symptoms. All those in the household, including the carer, should isolate for 14 days.

You can use the 111 online service to get support and advice on any further steps to be taken. Current guidance discourages calling 111 unless you are unable to get support online.

NHS guidance on self-isolation if you or someone you live with has symptoms can be found here

Continuation of care

If the Carer is considered vulnerable themselves (if they are over 70, have a long-term condition, are pregnant or have a weakened immune system) alternative care arrangements should be sought immediately to avoid exposure of the virus to them.

  • Ideally the carer would arrange to leave the home to stay elsewhere whilst self-isolating for 14 days.
  • If this is not possible contact should be minimised and additional precautions followed as set out here.

If the carer is willing to continue providing care they are able to continue to do so, but will need to take additional steps to avoid becoming infected. Latest guidance on minimising the risk of transmission whilst providing home care can be found here:

  • Use of Personal protective equipment for activities that bring the care worker into close personal contact
  • Cleaning duties should be completed with usual household products, with frequently touched surfaces cleaned regularly
  • Used Personal protective equipment, personal waste and disposable cleaning cloths should be stored securely within disposable rubbish bags. These bags should be placed into another bag, tied securely and kept separate from other waste within your own room. This should be put aside for at least 72 hours before being put in the usual household waste bin for disposal as normal.
  • If care workers support the individual with laundry, then they should not shake dirty laundry. This minimises the possibility of dispersing virus through the air.

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