For whānau that become COVID-19 positive, here is a list of items that are essential to care for a whānau member with COVID-19 in home isolation.
FIRST AID KIT FOR COVID-19
- Tissues
- Paracetamol
- Heat and cool packs
- Iceblocks
- Electrolytes
- Vicks or eucalyptus for steaming
- Saline nasal rinses/sprays
- Kawakawa or other balms
- Bowl and towel for head steaming
- Throat spray/lozenges
- Extra pillows and blankets
- Warm clothes
THINGS FOR SAFETY AND YOUR SANITY
- Emergency contact list and a house plan for self-isolation.
- Masks, gloves, hand sanitiser, disinfectant and cleaning products.
- Work out a child care plan, make sure your phone is charged, and ensure there is good ventilation and things to keep warm with.
- Keep your rubbish separated.
From a well-being perspective, Netflix, puzzles, books, cards, podcasts, soothing music and having a notebook and pen to help keep busy.
SELF CARE TIPS
- Pre-prepared kai, easy-to-heat meals such as soups and bone broth, as well as utilising food deliveries like My Food Bag or Hello Fresh.
- Helpful peppermint or ginger tea, vitamin D, zinc, magnesium and sleep drops.
- If you have them handy, use straws or balloons for lung exercises; practice box breathing or use breathing and meditation apps.
WHAT ELSE SHOULD YOU KNOW?
- Make a list of household instructions of things you usually do but cannot while isolating, such as feeding pets, paying bills, and instructions on how to use things.
- Write out your medical background and any medications you usually take and make sure this can be easily found
- Keep a top-up of items you regularly use in one place.