Protect Your Family When You Work in Healthcare

Healthcare professionals are in the business of caring for other people. Too often, we put ourselves second or even third to everyone else around us. When an infectious disease is rampant, such as flu season or the current COVID-19 pandemic, it's essential to consider how we can also keep our families safe. Leaving work and returning home to families who are sheltering in place may cause a little bit of a challenge. Here are some steps you can use to reduce the risk you and your family will get sick.   

Wash Your Hands  

This is a simple but obvious first step. It is worth repeating that washing your hands for at least 20 seconds can help reduce the spread of many infectious diseases. Be sure to clean between your fingers, the tips of your fingers, and your hands' palms and backs. Additionally, keep your hands away from your face. Any infectious viruses you may carry on your hands can be quickly transferred through your nose, mouth, or eyes.  

Take Care With Inanimate Objects  

Coronavirus is spread through respiratory droplets. The CDC believes there's no evidence to support transmission that's associated with preparing and eating food. While they continue to monitor whether a person can get the infection by touching a surface with the virus and then touching their face, it is not thought to be the primary way the virus spreads. This is because it has a very poor survivability on surfaces.    

However, it's important to remain vigilant. Some steps you can take are to change your shoes at the door when you come home. Remove your clothing when you arrive home and wash them as soon as possible according to the clothing label.    

Importantly, you'll also want to wash your phone as they harbor bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Check your phone manufacturer for the process they recommend. Take care not to use bleach or other liquids on the phone as it can damage your screen or destroy the phone. You may consider showering immediately when you return home.  

Take Care of Your Health  

You can reduce the risk of spreading the virus to your family by remaining healthy so you don't get sick. It's important to get 8 hours of quality sleep each night and support your immune system. Researchers have found people with adequate levels of vitamin D have a lower risk of getting the infection and have a reduced severity of the illness if they do get infected. It is wise to check your vitamin D levels and those of your family to ensure you have adequate levels.  

It's also important to take care of your mental and emotional health since stress can increase your risk of illness. Take care to get outside in the sunshine and enjoy exercise that helps reduce stress. Take a break from thinking about work by doing things you enjoy, such as listening to music, reading a book, spending time with family, or talking with a friend.  

Take Care of Your Health as You Take Care of Others  

At GetMed, we honor the men and women on the frontline of healthcare who are caring for others and caring for their families. We are here to help you stay safe and find your next assignment. Call us today!