COVID-19 Education

June 24, 2020 | by Cbuchanan

Message from Stephanie Hopper, Director of Clinical Services

Hospice of Hope and Hospice of Hope Ohio Valley is committed to providing compassionate care to aging Kentuckians and Ohioans at end of life. Our priority right now at Hospice of Hope and Hospice of Hope Ohio Valley is protecting those that we serve and our team members from exposure to coronavirus COVID-19. We know that our patient population is among those at risk to the effects of the illness and we understand that our patients and families may have fears and concerns. Like many of us I am sure that you are finding that times are confusing with conflicting information. Hospice of Hope and Hospice of Hope Ohio Valley can help to alleviate fears, anxieties, and can help answer questions.

What is a coronavirus?

Coronaviruses are named for the crown-like spikes on their surface. There are four main sub-groupings of coronaviruses, known as alpha, beta, gamma, and delta. Human coronaviruses were first identified in the mid-1960s. There are seven coronaviruses that can infect people including some that commonly cause mild upper-respiratory tract illnesses

What is COVID 19?

The new name of this disease is coronavirus disease 2019, abbreviated as COVID-19. In COVID-19, ‘CO’ stands for ‘corona,’ ‘VI’ for ‘virus,’ and ‘D’ for disease. Formerly, this disease was referred to as “2019 novel coronavirus” or “2019-nCoV”. COVID-19 is a new disease, caused be a novel (or new) coronavirus that has not previously been seen in humans.

How is COVID 19 spread?

The virus that causes COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly from person to person, mainly through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Spread is more likely when people are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).

How do we prevent the spread?

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your face
• Avoid close contact with people that may be sick, including those in your home.
• Put distance between those in public places and avoid gatherings of large crowds.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a face covering whether a procedural mask or cloth covering as this protects others.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces at least daily if not more often.

Symptoms:

People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

Some people NEVER have symptoms but still have the virus.

PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) and Hospice of Hope Procedure:

Hospice of Hope employees have been asked to wear a mask (cloth or healthcare grade) at all times when in the office building. In the home, nursing home, or care center (CCKP/IPC) setting where there is contact with patients and/or families employees should wear a healthcare grade “procedural” mask. Of course, diligent handwashing and sanitizing should occur with each contact of the patient and/or family. In the event that we are serving a positive COVID patient, full PPE including a fit tested N95 shall be worn as well as gown, gloves, and face shield.

For updated Care Center visitation guidelines and for COVID-19 related updates, please see our COVID-19 Education page! Click here.