New Delhi: COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets and fine particles expelled when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs, or sneezes. These particles can enter the bodies of others via the mouth, nose, or eyes, especially when in close contact. When the COVID pandemic kicked off in 2020, one of the most concerning factors was how easily the infection could spread. Be it through direct contact or by standing too close or even upon touching an object that came in contact with a Covid-positive patient, the virus was highly transmissible. Therefore, to control its transmission, guidelines on Covid-appropriate behaviour were curated and shared with all.
COVID-appropriate behaviour – guidelines to note
As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the following set of guidelines can come to the rescue at a time when COVID-19 cases are rising:
- Wear a mask
- Limit outdoor trips unless necessary
- Use a sanitiser
- Maintain social distancing
- Wash your hands each time you come home or after being in elevators, lobbies, and waiting rooms
Healthcare workers must be extra vigilant and also make sure that respiratory symptoms are addressed as a priority, without delay. At hospitals, too, chairs in the waiting area must be placed at a distance. Doctors must ensure that suspected cases are not placed in the same ward as COVID-positive patients.
Masking, Cleaning, and Protection Protocols
Upon arrival, any patient with respiratory symptoms should be given a medical mask if not already wearing one. Everyone in the designated waiting areas should wear masks or equivalent face coverings. Healthcare facilities must limit accompanying visitors in the COVID-suspect zone, restricting children under 18 unless they are patients or guardians. Triage zones should be disinfected at least twice daily, paying close attention to frequently touched surfaces. Use 0.1% chlorine solutions or 70% alcohol for surfaces sensitive to chlorine.
Protecting Healthcare Workers
HCWs must stay current on vaccination schedules and consistently follow infection control measures. Proper hand hygiene, use of PPE, and adherence to standard precautions are mandatory. Staff involved in physical exams of symptomatic patients should wear full PPE, including gowns, gloves, medical masks, and face shields or goggles.
In triage areas where there is no direct patient contact, PPE may not be required as long as distancing is maintained. Staff who exhibit symptoms should refrain from work and follow return-to-duty guidelines. By adhering to these preventive steps, healthcare settings can better protect patients and workers while reducing the spread of COVID-19.
