Overview of:

Cancer:  Most frequent types of cancer, can occur any body part. Early recognition and treatment. May be resolved with early detection and treatment. If not detected early the cancer may metastasize to the entire body resulting in death.

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome:  Also called AIDS.  Early onset of flu like symptoms within 2 – 6 weeks after contracting virus. Very contagious in this stage. This may be followed by a second stage where you are asymptomatic for years.  May not realize you have it.  Third stage, weakened immune system often results in body infections, respiratory infections.

New medications now available that may reduce contagious symptoms and prolong life.

Arthritis:  Inflammation of the joints. Many varieties of arthritis.  May occur at any age, but most often in seniors.  Very painful and reduces mobility and use of body parts.  Treatment is often analgesics and other medications, physical therapy, movement, weight loss.

Parkinson’s Disease:   The result of the loss of dopamine-producing brain cells, but may have

different causes and treatments.  Most forms of PD occur without any known cause. In some cases, PD symptoms may be caused by drugs, head injury, genetic mutations, or other medical disorders.

With the right treatment, most people with PD can live productively for many years.  PD may cause complications that can lead to death, such as choking, pneumonia, and falls. There is no cure for Parkinson’s disease.

Infection Control:  Disease Transmission includes Airborne Transmission, Bloodborne Transmission, Contact Transmission, Droplet Transmission.  Handwashing for 30 – 60 seconds with soap and water is the best way to stop transmission.

Observe Standard Precautions by wearing PPE as appropriate to each resident.  Dispose of the PPE and wash hands.  Any object that can penetrate the skin, such as needles, broken glass, lancets, need to be put into a Sharp container (red).

If an Exposure Occurs immediately wash the cut area with soap and water.  Report the exposure immediately to receive directions for treatment.