This module focuses on the identification and management of influenza in non-hospital settings, such as residential aged care facilities and community care homes.
This module provides a description of influenza, details the signs and symptoms, and discusses the medical management and nursing interventions. It also provides an overview of the complications of influenza and effective control strategies to reduce its transmission between residents.
Due to their age, chronic illnesses and shared living arrangements, residents in aged care facilities and community homes are highly susceptible to respiratory infections and at greater risk of death due to influenza and pneumonia.
Influenza is a viral infection that is far more severe than a common cold. It is characterised by the sudden onset of symptoms which may include fever, shortness of breath, sore throat, muscle aches, and headaches. Older people are also at risk of increased confusion and deterioration of chronic medical conditions.
This module is recommended for people providing care to elderly residents in non-acute settings. It is useful as a refresher for aged care workers or as an introduction to anyone without previous experience in caring for residents with influenza.
At the end of this module participants will be able to:
