Preventing Infections

Simple Steps to Stay Healthy at Home

At Alpine Home Medical, your health and safety are our top priorities. While getting sick isn’t fun for anyone, avoiding infections is especially important for those who have existing health conditions or use medical equipment at home.

Some infections can’t be prevented entirely — but many can.By following these simple steps, you can reduce your risk of infection and keep yourself and your loved ones healthier year-round.

1. Wash Your Hands Frequently

Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs.

When to Wash:

• Before and after preparing or eating food
• After using the restroom
• After being in public or crowded places
• After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose
• Before and after touching your medical equipment or supplies

How to Wash Properly:

1. Wet your hands with clean running water.
2. Apply soap and rub your hands together to make a lather.
3. Clean all areas — between fingers, under nails, and the backs of your hands.
4. Scrub for at least 20 seconds (sing “Happy Birthday” twice).
5. Rinse well and dry with a clean towel or air dry.

If soap and water aren’t available:
Use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Rub the sanitizer over all surfaces of your hands until they feel dry.
(Hand sanitizers work well unless hands are visibly dirty or greasy.)

2. Avoid Touching Your Face

Many germs enter the body through your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Train yourself to avoid touching your face, especially with unwashed hands.
If you must adjust a mask, oxygen cannula, or glasses, wash or sanitize your hands first.

3. Keep Your Distance from Sick Individuals

Try to avoid close contact with people who are sick.
If you must be near someone who is ill, wear a face mask and wash your hands afterward.

Ask friends or family members to postpone visits if they’re experiencing symptoms like coughing, fever, sore throat, or congestion.

4. Stay Hydrated

Your body needs fluids to function well and fight off infection.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to:

• Keep mucus thin and easier to clear
• Support your immune system
• Prevent dehydration from fever or medications

If you use oxygen, staying hydrated also helps reduce dryness in your mouth and throat.

5. Keep Your Home and Equipment Clean

Germs can live on surfaces for hours or even days. Keeping your environment clean is an important part of infection control.

Tips for a Cleaner Environment:

• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces — door handles, phones, remote controls, and light switches.
• Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions for all medical equipment.
• Clean and replace equipment parts (like oxygen tubing, masks, or humidifiers) as recommended.
• Use mild soap and warm water for most cleaning, unless otherwise directed.
• Wash linens, towels, and clothing regularly in hot water.

Reminder:
A clean home helps reduce bacteria, mold, and viruses — especially if you’re using oxygen, respiratory devices, or other home medical equipment.

6. Avoid Large Crowds When Possible

Limit your exposure to large groups, especially during cold and flu season.If you need to run errands, visit your doctor, or attend appointments, try to go during off-peak hours when places are less crowded.

7. Address Symptoms Early

If you start to feel unwell, don’t wait — contact your healthcare provider right away. Early treatment can prevent infections from worsening or spreading. Report symptoms such as fever, coughing, sore throat, fatigue, or changes in breathing to your doctor.

8. Practice Smart, Balanced Precautions

Being aware and careful can go a long way toward keeping you healthy. You don’t need to isolate yourself — just make infection prevention part of your daily routine.

Small actions, taken consistently, make a big difference in staying safe and well.

When to Contact Your Doctor

Call your healthcare provider if you:

• Develop a fever or cough that doesn’t improve
• Have shortness of breath or chest discomfort
• Notice redness, swelling, or drainage from a wound or medical site
• Feel weak, dizzy, or dehydrated
• Experience any unusual changes in your health

If you have an emergency or trouble breathing, call 911 immediately.