Many of us have faced infections. Our bodies sometimes have their own agendas. We do not often experience infectious complications if we can care for ourselves because we know our bodies. With our elders, constant care is required because our loved ones cannot manage care should they develop an infectious process.
Infections after surgery are more common than we know, especially in elderly loved ones. Infectious diseases account for one-third of all deaths in people 65 years and older. Infections can lead to life-altering complications like sepsis(blood infection), high mortality, and extended hospital stays. Watchful infection prevention and prompt treatment are essential. Despite advances in antibiotic treatments, infectious diseases continue to be a significant cause of complications and death in older adults. The four most common infections are urinary tract infections, influenza(respiratory infection), pneumonia, and sepsis. Note: sepsis(blood poisoning) is the body’s life-threatening response to infection. Sepsis is a medical emergency that requires rapid diagnosis and treatment.
What To Look For-Symptoms Of Infection
Changes caused by infections in our elderly loved ones are subtle and sometimes nonspecific. Elderly loved ones with infectious processes display things like cognitive decline, weakness, unexplained fatigue, or a change in mental status. It is also possible to see an increase/decrease in breathing(respiratory rates) and anorexia(not eating). If they have a fever, their skin may feel hot to the touch. Symptoms can arise fast or over time.
What Should You Do?
First, trust yourself as a caregiver and what you see and hear your loved one saying or not saying. Medical attention is required to treat any infectious process. Once signs and symptoms of an infectious process show up, seek care. Certain loved ones are high-risk because of chronic health conditions, so delay in seeking care is not an option.
As Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, please see a doctor immediately if your loved one experiences infection-related signs or symptoms. Complex medical infections result from waiting too long to seek treatment for an infection. I realize the challenges in the healthcare environment, such as wait times and the feeling of being rushed or even getting an appointment. Receiving care sometimes feels disconnected, adding another frustration to the world of caregiving. But we know that as an advocate, we owe it to our loved ones because you are their eyes, ears, and voice. Be safe! Be Well!
Dr. Cynthia J. Hickman is a retired registered nurse and case manager, CEO of Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate. She has released her newest book, The Essential Caregiver Training Course for Corporations and Community. From the Lens of Daughter, Nurse, and Caregiver: A Journey of Duty and Honor, and The Black Book of Important Information for Caregivers.