Treatment of Sapovirus

If a Sapovirus has been identified, report the symptoms to a registered nurse

Assess for pain and dehydration

Ensure the resident's fluid level is monitored with a fluid balance intake/output chart

Record intake and output once a shift and monitor vital signs every 4 hours

Administer medications to relieve symptoms if prescribed

Allow the resident uninterrupted rest periods as part of the care plan

Avoid quick movements if the resident is nauseated, which can increase the severity of nausea

The resident should slowly drink electrolyte-balanced beverages

Apply a barrier cream, such as petroleum jelly, to relieve anal irritation caused by diarrhoea

Wash hands thoroughly after giving care

Use standard and transmission-based precautions

Isolate

Provide the resident with information about gastroenteritis, including symptoms and causes

Educate the resident on how to prevent the disease and hand washing

Treatment

Sapovirus infection does not have a specific treatment. General health and the resident's immune system may determine how quickly recovery takes. Most people usually take a few days for the illness to resolve. Replacing lost fluids is essential and oral rehydration solutions are available. If unable to drink fluids, rehydration may need to be done with an intravenous drip, usually done in the hospital. The Doctor may prescribe over-the-counter anti-diarrhoeal medication and medication to reduce nausea.

When symptoms are moderate to severe, anti-diarrhoea agents may be avoided as they may worsen gastroenteritis.