Here are some tips for taking care of a loved one with pneumonia at home.

1. Caring for a Loved One with
Pneumonia
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2. According to the American Lung Association, next to influenza,
pneumonia is ranked as the eighth leading cause of death in the United
States.
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3. • Typically, pneumonia exists when a patient’s immune system is
weakened due to another illness, such as bronchitis or the flu.
• Many people develop it in the hospital.
• During the illness, seniors will need support from a caregiver.
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4. If a loved one has the flu, watch for these warning signs which could
develop into pneumonia:
Seek immediate medical attention is a loved one has difficulty
breathing or shortness of breath, pain or pressure in the abdomen or
chest, confusion, abrupt dizziness and/or continual vomiting.
Dehydration and a worsening of any other medical conditions, such as
heart problems, emphysema or asthma, are also cause for alarm.
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5. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to treat a loved one at home
to promote recovery.
Here are some tips for taking care of a loved one with pneumonia at
home:
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6. 1. Give your loved one plenty of fluids and make sure he or she rests,
saving strength for recovery. Fluids help loosen secretions so that
the patient can bring up phlegm.
2. Try to get your loved one to eat something that will build up his or
her strength, such as lentil or chicken soup.
3. Don’t let your loved one do any chores until he or she is stronger.
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7. 4. Give your loved one aspirin or acetaminophen to control any fever.
5. Wash your hands before preparing your loved one’s food or touching
him or her.
6. Make sure no visitors have colds or coughs.
7. Try propping your parent up in bed to see if that helps his or her
breathing.
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8. Nearly 1 in 5 people with pneumonia make costly, stressful return trips
to the hospital within the first 30 days of being diagnosed with the
condition.
Individuals with pneumonia also are at a higher risk of having additional,
underlying conditions that can make it more difficult to get better without
assistance.
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9. Research shows that many of these rehospitalizations are potentially
preventable through the use of proactive, team-based
care-coordination programs.
BrightStar Care is equipped with the expertise and passion to work with
patients, families, and physicians to reduce the likelihood of hospital
readmissions for individuals with pneumonia.
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10. BrightStar Clinical Pathways for Pneumonia uses clinically proven
methods to educate people with pneumonia and their families on the
key aspects of the condition and how to monitor symptoms, adhere to a
plan of care, take their medication, improve wellness, and stay healthy.
Click here for more information.
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11. Find Quality Care Now
Locate a BrightStar Near You!
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