Most people with COVID-19 will be self-managed at home during isolation, with regular telehealth consultations (check-ups) with your General Practice. It is best if you can use video for these check-ups, otherwise phone check-ups will be used. Your doctor will want to know how your symptoms are going, as well as knowing your pulse rate, breathing rate and oxygen levels if you have a pulse oximeter.
Having a “kit” with some essential items will help to manage your symptoms and also assist your GP in assessing your wellbeing. We recommend the following:
- A thermometer
- Medication to relieve pain and fever (eg Paracetamol or Ibuprofen)
- Enough of your regular medicines
- Masks, hand sanitizer, gloves
- Oral rehydration solutions (eg Gastrolyte/Hydrolyte) especially if you have children at home
- Lozenges or throat spray to assist with sore throat symptoms
- A pulse oximeter can be helpful to monitor your oxygen levels if you can afford this. Most pulse oximeters are not suitable for children.
Other things to consider:
- A plan for how to get food and essential supplies for two weeks
- A list of phone number for people outside your home you can call for help
- Stay at home activities, especially if you have kids
- A list of helpful numbers for more information
- A list of helpful resources especially around mental health support if needed
- A COVID-19 Action Plan if you are in a higher risk group for serious infection. Your GP can help you with this.
- Practice how to record your pulse rate and breathing rate manually.
- Please click on the link below from the RACGP to help you plan for managing COVID-19. This also includes an action plan, symptom diary, how to check your pulse and breathing rates, how to use a pulse oximeter and a list of resources where you can get more help. https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/Clinical%20Resources/Guidelines/Managing-mild-COVID-19-at-home-with-assistance-from-your-GP.pdf
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