Flu and Pneumonia

The frequency of chronic illness in senior adults puts them at high risk for development of pneumonia and influenza. Among the elderly, pneumonia is the fourth leading cause of death and account for more than 80% of all influenza deaths. Too, geriatrics often experience complications such as bacteremia, septicemia, or meningitis and are frequently left debilitated even after symptoms resolve. Referral to home healthcare can lead to decreased hospitalizations and better patient outcomes for this vulnerable group.

Patients experiencing any of the following signs/symptoms may benefit from a referral to CareSouth for home health.

Pneumonia

• fever and/or cough
• deterioration of baseline function
• tachypnea, tachycardia
• fatigue
• shortness of breath
• insomnia

Influenza

• aches, pains
• fever
• malaise
• anorexia
• sore throat
• cough, chest congestion

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For the Patient: Assessment, education and rehabilitation to promote optimum recovery

• Education on Flu/Pneumonia symptoms and when to seek immediate medical attention
• Instruction on medication regimen, it's purpose and potential side effects
• Discuss smoking cessation techniques
• Learn about nutritional and hydration requirements
• Learn ways to conserve your energy
• Home Health Aide for assistance with bathing, dressing, etc

For the Physician: Enhancing disease management from within the patient's home

• Improvement in patient's self management of illness
• Reduce emergency room visits and re-hospitalization
• Reduction in cost of care
• Improved medication management; poly pharmacy, frequent lab testing and adjustment for unstable therapies
• Prevent falls through education related to weakness and vertigo associated with pneumonia and flu
• Prevention of complications by skilled observation, assessment and education by professionals

Home Health can offer:

• Education to patient and caregiver about flu and pneumonia
• Physical therapy for regaining strength and lost function
• Social Service assistance in dealing with on-set of depression
• Management of complications or co-morbidities
• Medication management; poly pharmacy, and education about side effects, dietary contra-indications, etc
• Monitoring of oxygen saturation levels and perform other laboratory testing as requested by physician
• Home Health Aide for assistance with personal care

For more information or to make a referral please contact:

Augusta Office

One Tenth Street, Suite 500
Augusta, Georgia 30901
Tel: 706-854-7500
Fax: 706-854-7550