Epicare Associates, Inc. specializes in outsourced training and consultation for healthcare organizations and facilities. All of the Epicare staff are Master’s or doctoral prepared nurses, with extensive experience in their specialty area. There is an extensive range of programs and services. Our goal is to offer high quality educational programs and educational support services that meet all regulatory requirements on an outsourced basis. Most organizations and healthcare agencies without significant educational resources, find this a cost-effective option for training.
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Cold, Flu, & COVID
As temperatures drop and trees begin to lose their leaves, it is important to take precautions against common winter illnesses that can put a damper on the holiday season. On top of the typical germs that get passed around each year, the COVID-19 pandemic is not over and the recent increase in cases is even more reason to take extra measures to keep yourself and your loved ones safe and healthy. Wearing a mask, social distancing, washing your hands thoroughly and often, getting vaccinated AND boosted, and getting tested if you think you have been exposed are all crucial tools to stay as healthy and informed as possible and to keep your community safe. Also, make sure to get your flu shot for extra protection against winter germs! Stay informed on the symptoms of the common cold, the flu, and COVID to help identify what you might have and how to treat it if you begin to develop symptoms. COVID-19 can be distinguished from the cold and flu by a severe headache and a dry (nonproductive) cough. The common cold usually includes nasal congestion (stuffy nose), sneezing, a sore throat, a runny nose, and a mild cough. If you begin to feel other symptoms that are common in both COVID and the flu like fever, muscle aches and tiredness, sore throat, nausea and diarrhea, consider whether you may have been exposed to COVID-19 and make sure to get tested. Whether you are positive for COVID or are suffering from other winter illnesses, it's a good idea to stay home and isolate for a few days to allow your body to recover and prevent the unnecessary spreading of germs. Getting plenty of restful sleep, drinking lots of water, eating a balanced diet, staying active and limiting stressors can help keep your immune system strong to fight these illnesses before they become severe.
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Caring for Someone at Home
If you are caring for someone at home, monitor for emergency signs, prevent the spread of germs, treat symptoms, and carefully consider when to end home isolation.
Note: Older adults and people of any age with certain serious underlying medical conditions like lung disease, heart disease, or diabetes are at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness and should seek care as soon as symptoms start.
Monitor the person for worsening symptoms. Know the emergency warning signs.
- Have their healthcare provider’s contact information on hand.
- If they are getting sicker, call their healthcare provider. For medical emergencies, call 911 and notify the dispatch personnel that they have or are suspected to have COVID-19.
If you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19 get medical attention immediately. Emergency warning signs include*:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion or inability to arouse
- Bluish lips or face
*This list is not all inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning.
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Balancing Work and Life during Challenging Times
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Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 “To assure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women; by authorizing enforcement of the standards developed under the Act; by assisting and encouraging the States in their efforts to assure safe and healthful working conditions; by providing for research, information, education, and training in the field of occupational safety and health.”
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Although the United States has implemented public health measures to limit the spread of the virus, it is likely that some person-to-person transmission will continue to occur.
The CDC website provides the latest information about COVID-19 transmission: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
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