How To Avoid Catching Viral Diseases While On Duty For Nurse
As a nurse, you are at a higher risk of catching viral diseases due to your constant exposure to patients who may be carrying different types of viruses. Therefore, it is important for you to take extra precautions to protect yourself from these infections. In this blog post, we will discuss some simple but effective ways to avoid catching viral diseases while on duty.
Practice good hand hygiene
Hand hygiene is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of viral diseases. Make sure you wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before and after caring for patients, after touching any contaminated surfaces or objects, and before and after eating. Also, avoid touching your face, especially your mouth, nose, and eyes, as these are entry points for viruses.
Wear personal protective equipment (PPE)
Personal protective equipment, such as gloves, masks, and gowns, provide a barrier between you and infectious agents. Make sure you wear the appropriate PPE when caring for patients who are known or suspected to have a viral infection. You should also remove and dispose of PPE appropriately to avoid contamination.
Follow standard precautions
Standard precautions are a set of infection prevention practices that should be used for all patients, regardless of their infection status. These include using appropriate PPE, practicing good hand hygiene, and properly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and equipment. Make sure you follow standard precautions at all times to protect yourself and your patients.
Stay up-to-date on immunizations
Immunizations are a key component of preventing viral diseases. Make sure you are up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations, including the annual flu vaccine. You should also consider getting vaccinated against other viral diseases, such as hepatitis B and measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR).
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle can help boost your immune system and reduce your risk of getting sick. Make sure you eat a healthy, balanced diet, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly. You should also avoid smoking and limit your alcohol consumption, as these can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to infections.
Practice social distancing
Social distancing is an important way to prevent the spread of viral diseases. Make sure you maintain a distance of at least six feet from patients who are known or suspected to have a viral infection. You should also avoid large gatherings and crowded areas whenever possible.
Stay home if you are sick
If you are feeling sick, it is important to stay home to avoid spreading your illness to others. Make sure you notify your supervisor and follow your facility’s policy for reporting illness. You should also seek medical attention if your symptoms worsen or you develop new symptoms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, preventing the spread of viral diseases requires a multi-faceted approach that includes good hand hygiene, proper use of PPE, following standard precautions, staying up-to-date on immunizations, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing social distancing, and staying home if you are sick. By taking these simple but effective steps, you can protect yourself and your patients from viral infections while on duty as a nurse.
