PLANNING TO VISIT A HOSPITAL DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC?

Planning to visit a hospital during COVID-19 pandemic?

Even though travel restrictions have been lifted and people are getting back to normal life in many of the cities, COVID-19 cases are still on the rise.

If you have any of the  symptoms of COVID-19  like fever, sore throat, dry cough or breathing difficulty; inform health care  authorities and follow their instructions. Seek medical attention at COVID-19 designated hospitals only.

In case  you have to visit the hospital for your regular followup or any other problems other than COVID-19 symptoms, make prior appointments. Contact them for doctor’s availability and be on time for  your allotted  slot. This can avoid unnecessary long waiting hours and unwanted exposure, as hospitals are the hotbed of infection.

For minor ailments consult your family physician over the phone and follow the instruction. Discuss with  your doctor about rescheduling surgical procedures that are not urgently needed.

SOCIAL DISTANCING

Social distancing

It is advisable to avoid public transport and use your own transportation as you might be at higher risk of infection at crowded places. Use alcohol based hand sanitizer, follow minimum touch technique, practice social distancing and strictly follow facial mask hygiene. Try to keep at least 6 feet (2 arm distance) from other people throughout.

PRECAUTIONS AT HOSPITAL

You will be screened for raised temperature at hospital emergency before appointment with the doctor, don't worry its for your own safety.

 At the waiting area maintain social distance and wait  patiently for your turn as staff may be disinfecting the consulting room.

Even though the hospital infection control team ensures disinfection and cleaning of frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, chairs, handrails and toilets- it is always advisable to practice minimum touch technique for your own safety.

Hand Washing

If your hands are visibly dirty, washing hands with soap and water thoroughly for at least 20 seconds is advised. 

CHILDREN AT HOSPITAL?

Face mask

Restrict taking them to hospital and only to be taken when they require medical attention. You can be a good role model to your child by  washing your hands often and taking precautions adequately. You may get your child immunized as per schedule after taking adequate precautions. Avoid cloth face covering in babies and children less than 2 years.

 Avoid bystanders when going to hospital and if you are hospitalised, limit the visitors. People  who are at increased risk of  COVID-19 should limit their travel to hospital.

Don't be surprised to see the increased charges, instead you should anticipate it as more disposables and consumables are used for preventive measures. When paying the bill use contact less payment methods whenever possible otherwise do hand sanitisation after paying  cash.

Studies have shown that your mobile phones are potential carriers of various disease.

Once you return back home, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

Virus spreads through respiratory droplets released by a infected patient. So the best method to protect yourself is by reducing the chance of getting exposed to the virus.  

Hospital visit should be done only when it is inevitable and in emergency conditions. But avoiding your doctor  during this corona virus outbreak, ignoring serious signs and symptoms can be dangerous and fatal too.