The CNA Tip of the Week is provided by healthcare professionals from State approved training schools and centers around the State of Georgia.  These Tips should be used as part of your individual continuing education in healthcare-related items.  They can be printed and signed for use as training documentation.

 CNA TIP OF THE WEEK:

Infection Control Measures – More Home Care Guidelines       

 Protect Your Patient’s Home Environment

Last week’s tip addressed the cleaning procedures in infection control, including hand-washing, the laundry of a patient’s linens, and cleaning supplies.  For CNA’s that are involved in home care, please note the following additional considerations to assure good infection control:

 General Infection Control Tips

• Assure adequate ventilation
• If pets are present, they must have the proper care, feeding, and grooming.
• Clean-up any body substances immediately, and then dispose properly.
• Clean the bathroom frequently
• Do not share personal item or tooth brushes.
• Soak tooth brushes once per week for 15 minutes (mix 1 part over-the-counter hydrogen peroxide with 3 parts of water).
• Store food properly
• Follow the cooking instructions for meats, poultry, and eggs
• Wash counters with a disinfectant spray after food preparation
• Change clothes frequently

 Know the Signs of Infection

• Inflamed tissue
• Fever, chills
• Draining lesions (pus)
• Persistent nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Sore throat or persistent cough
• Painful urination