- Create an isolation area with plastic sheeting and transparent roller shades
- Ensure comfort and safety with natural light, temperature control, comfortable chairs/couches, and food accessibility
- Ensure hygiene and cleanliness by wearing protective gear when cleaning/caring for the patient, regularly cleaning/sanitizing the room, disposing of waste properly, and changing linen regularly.
- Taking the necessary steps now can provide peace of mind that you have done all you can to care for your loved one.
Caring for sick family members or friends at home can be challenging. You may need to make a few adjustments to ensure their health and safety. Creating a comfortable room for them should be your first step.
With the proper preparation, you can ensure they are as comfortable as possible. Here are some tips on how to set up a room in your home for patients who need extra support.
Create an Isolation Area
The first step is to create an area that can be easily isolated from the rest of the house, if necessary. This means creating a clean and separate space, with its own bathroom and kitchenette if available.
If such an area does not exist, you must designate one. Consider using plastic sheeting to cover furniture that cannot be moved or put away, like couches and beds, to keep it clean and reduce the risk of spreading germs or illnesses.
You may also need to invest in Bandalux roller shades to protect the patient from contracting germs from the outside. These roller shades are made with transparent material, preventing the patient from feeling isolated while allowing them to see the outside world.
Ensure Comfort & Safety
The next step is ensuring the room is comfortable and safe for the patient and any visitors or medical staff. Make sure plenty of natural light comes into the room and adequate temperature control through air conditioning or heating, depending on the season.
Provide comfortable chairs or couches for visitors to stay for extended periods without discomfort. If there is no kitchenette in the room, ensure food items are readily accessible nearby, so they don’t have to travel far when hungry or thirsty. Also, consider installing safety bars in showers and bathrooms if the patient may need them during their stay.
Make sure the patient’s medical needs are met. Stock up on all necessary medical supplies such as bandages, ointments, and any other items they may need. If a wheelchair or walker is necessary, always have them ready and available. You should also have a first-aid kit easily accessible in case of an emergency.
Ensure Hygiene & Cleanliness
It’s also essential to maintain hygiene standards throughout your home while caring for a sick person at home. This is an important step to ensure that germs and infections are not spread to other people in the house. So how do you ensure cleanliness and hygiene at home? Here are a few suggestions:
Wear protective gear when necessary
Wear face masks and gloves when cleaning and sanitizing the room if possible. This will help prevent germs from spreading to other areas of your house. It would also be ideal to wear these items when caring for the patient. Remember that they are vulnerable to infection, so taking the necessary precautions is a must. This is also a great way to protect yourself as well.
Clean regularly
Make sure to clean and sanitize the room regularly. Cleaning supplies such as antibacterial wipes, bleach, and disinfectants should always be readily available. Consider replacing bed linens, towels, and other washable fabrics more frequently.
Dispose of waste properly
Proper waste disposal is also important to keep the room sanitary and free from any bacteria or viruses. Regularly empty trash bins and dispose of items like soiled gloves, tissues, and other medical waste in a separate bag. Don’t forget to wash your hands regularly, too!
Change linen regularly
Another important step when caring for a sick family member or friend is to change their bed linens regularly. This will help keep the area clean and free from germs. Choose sheets and blankets that are soft, breathable, and resistant to wear and tear so that they last longer.
The Bottom Line
Setting up a homeroom for sick patients requires preparation and attention to detail, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming if done correctly. With these tips, you can create a comfortable, safe, hygienic, and secure isolation area for all involved. By taking steps now, you will have peace of mind knowing you have provided everything necessary for those in your care during this difficult time.
