Treatment of Influenza
If influenza (flu) infection has been identified, refer symptoms to the registered nurse
Nursing Care
Assess pain
Administer alternative interventions or medications to relieve pain and symptoms.jpg)
Monitor breathing, check vital observations 4hourly and auscultate lungs
Check for laboured breathing, cyanosis, cold and clammy skin
Coughing and deep breathing should be encouraged, educate on holding the sternum when coughing
Place the resident in a semi-fowler's position to facilitate breathing and lung expansion
Encourage or assist in changing the resident's position often and encourage ambulation as tolerated to prevent secretions from accumulating
Monitor and record the sputum colour, consistency, and amount
Encourage fluids
Educate on hand washing and disposal of secretions properly to prevent infection from spreading
Prevent transmission by implementing standard and transmission-based precautions
Isolate
TreatmentAntiviral drugs may be a treatment option for people at risk of influenza complications. This includes people who are young, elderly, pregnant, asthmatic, diabetic, have heart conditions, and other medical conditions. Antiviral medications are most effective when taken 1-2 days after symptoms appear and can reduce symptoms and shorten the time of sickness. Vaccination is recommended. |