Tle 10

Lesson 3
Maintaining a Healthy and Safe Environment
Get Ready
While helping an elderly member of the family at home, it is equally important to know what to
do in cases of emergency. The caregiver should be knowledgeable in identifying physical hazards and
risks to self and to the older person. He/She should be able to perform first aid skills when needed.
This lesson will provide you information on various ways to apply first aid measures.
Read and Learn

An understanding of the common characteristics of older people furnishes the basis of working
with them satisfactorily. Acquisition of knowledge and skills in handling the physical and emotional
needs of an older person and those with other limitations prepares one to assume the responsibility
of caring for them satisfactorily.
Assessing the Situation

Elderly people are seldom prepared for the hazard of accidents which are so common in old
age, and seldom taught how to avoid them. All the common hazards to physical well-being at earlier
ages not only are more common during old age but also affect a large proportion of individuals. In
addition to these common hazards, there are some that are largely limited to the old-age groups.
Common Physical Hazards Characteristics of Old Age

1. Diseases and Physical Handicaps – elderly are most commonly afflicted by circulatory
disturbances, disorders of the joints, heart diseases, rheumatism, arthritis, visual and hearing
impairments, hypertension, mental, and nervous conditions.
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2. Malnutrition in old age is due more to physical than to economic causes. The most common
psychological causes are lack of appetite resulting from anxiety and depression not wanting
to eat alone. Even when their food intake is not deficient, many older people do not get the
full value from their food because of malabsorption resulting from digestive or intestinal
disturbances or failure of the endocrine system to function as it formerly did.
3. Dental disorders – most elderly people lose some or all of their teeth. Those who must wear
dentures often have difficulty in chewing foods that are rich in protein, such as meat, and
may concentrate on those high in carbohydrates. Chewing difficulties also encourage the
swallowing of larger and coarser food masses, which may lead to digestive disorders. Ill-fitting
dentures or the absence of teeth often causes lisping and slurring, which interfere with the
older person’s speech and causes embarrassment.
4. Accidents – older people are generally more accident-prone than younger ones. Even when
the accidents are not fatal, they frequently leave the individual disabled for life. Falls which may
be due to environmental obstacles or to dizziness, weakness, or vision, are the most common
accidents among older women; while older men are most commonly involved in motor vehicle
accidents, either as drivers or as pedestrians. Accidents caused by fire and burns, poisonous
gas, mechanical suffocation are also common in old age.
All of us will at some time have to make a decision whether or not to help another person
during emergencies and would be able to perform first aid because we will eventually find
ourselves in a situation requiring it, either for another or for ourselves. The risk of injury while
working, playing, or traveling is so great that some people sustain injuries at some time during
our lives. There are those who suffer non-fatal injury serious enough to need medical attention
and some others do not escape the tragedy of a fatal or permanent disabling injury. Never make
a rescue attempt that you have not been specifically trained to do. You cannot help another if
you become a victim.
One of the major health problems for older people is falling, some even lose confidence
in their ability to move around because of the fear of falling.
When a person is falling, don’t try to stop the fall because both of you could be hurt and
injured. Attend to him/her by supporting his/her head and gradually rest him/her on the floor
by letting him/her slide down your body slowly. Ask him/her if he/she is okay, if not and is in
pain call for help immediately. If not injured but cannot get up by himself/herself, do not lift
him/her by yourself. Do not try to lift an average person on the floor unless you had proper
training, always ask for help.
In giving first aid to a person with HBV (hepatitis B Virus) or with HIV (Human Immune-
deficiency Virus) use protective equipment whenever possible. These are blood-borne pathogens
and are disease-causing microorganisms that may be present in human blood or other body fluids.
1. Keep open wounds covered with dressings to prevent contact with blood.
2. Use disposable latex gloves in every situation involving
blood or other body fluids.
3. If disposable gloves are not available, use the most water
proof material or extra gauge dressing to form a barrier.
4. When doing rescue breathing, use a mouth-to-barrier
device for protection. There may be blood in the victim’s
mouth.
Precautionary measures after a Caregiver is exposed to blood or
body fluids of an HBV or HIV Victim:
1. Wash the exposed area immediately with soap or running water. Scrub vigorously with
lots of lather.
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2. Report the incident promptly.
3. Get medical help, treatment, and counseling.
4. Ask about HBV globulin if you have not been given the HBV vaccine. It can provide short-
term protection. HBV vaccination will follow.
Checking the Victim’s Vital Signs and Evaluating His/Her Physical Condition
During emergency situations, when panic exists, knowing what to do and what not to do is
very important. You can only help if you know what is wrong and what the emergency situation is.
Checking a victim is divided into two parts:
1. Primary survey for life-threatening conditions – primary survey finds and corrects life-
threatening conditions. If in primary survey you discover problems such as no breathing
or massive bleeding, you must attend to them immediately before proceeding with the
rest of the assessment.
2. Secondary survey for non-emergency conditions – this is done after the primary survey
is completed and attending to any life-threatening problems. This survey will discover
injuries or conditions that do not pose an immediate threat to life, but may become
serious if not detected and corrected. Even minor injuries need treatment, but must first
be found.
a) Check what is the chief complaint of the victim.
b) Try to find out what caused the injury or condition or what medical problem does
the victim have that may be causing the condition.
c) Gently touch, feel, or probe the site of injury for any obvious or unusual deformity.
d) If possible, compare the injured area with the same area on the opposite side of the
body to determine anything unusual.
e) Keep checking the victim and keep a written record of what you find. This will help
the physician, if needed to make a diagnosis.
Making the Patient Calm and Comfortable

Taking care of the patient requires an accurate and intelligent decision making skills for the
caregiver. It is the primary responsibility of the caregiver to make the patient calm and comfortable
during the period of illness or injury. This includes wise decision and action in terms of determining
if the situation is safe for the victim. He/she has to see if the victim is in life threatening or non-
emergency condition. He/She has to help the victim in different but proper position to make him/her
comfortable and to provide him/her proper medical care.
Use fingers to lift chin
Applying Basic First Aid Technique

1. In the primary survey, check if the airway is open. If the victim
is conscious and talking, then the airway is open. Open the
airway with the head-tilt/chin lift method.
a) Place hand nearest victim’s head on victim’s forehead
and apply backward pressure to tilt head back.
b) Place fingers of other hand under bony part of jaw near
chin and lift. Avoid pressing on soft tissues under jaw.
Apply backward pressure
c) Tilt head backward without closing victim’s mouth. to tilt head back
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d) Do not use thumb to lift the chin, use the fingers.
If a neck injury is suspected, do not move victim’s head or neck. First try lifting chin
without tilting head back. If breaths do not go in, slowly and gently tilt the head back
until breaths can go in.
2. Check for breathing (take 3-5 seconds)
a) Place your ear over victim’s mouth and nose while Pinch nose shut.
keeping airway open.
b) Look at victim’s chest to check for rise and fall;
listen and feel for breathing.
c) Give two slow breaths.
d) Keep head tilted back with head-tilt/chin-lift to
keep airway open.
e) Pinch nose shut. Watch
chest
f) Take a deep breath and seal your lips tightly
rise.
around victim’s mouth.
g) Give two slow breaths, each lasting 1 ½ to 2 Keep head titled back and chin lifted.
seconds (you should take a breath after each
breath given to victim).
h) Watch chest rise to see if your breaths go in.
i) Allow for chest deflation after each breath. If neither of these two breaths went in, re-
tilt the head and try two more breaths. If still unsuccessful, suspect choking, known as
foreign body airway obstruction.
3. Check circulation by feeling for a heartbeat (pulse)
a) Maintain head-tilt with hand nearest Keep head tilted back.
head or forehead.
b) Locate Adam’s apple with two or
three fingers of hand. Locate Adam’s apple
c) Slide your fingers down into groove with 2 of 3 fingers
of neck on side closest to you (do
not use your thumb because you
Slide fingers into groove
may feel your own pulse).
of neck closest to you.
d) Feel for carotid pulse (take 5-10 seconds). Carotid
artery is used because it lies close to the heart and
is accessible. If there is no pulse, Cardiopulmonary
Resuscitation (CPR) is required.
(Source: First Aid Hand book page 17-18)
4. Check for severe bleeding (hemorrhage) by looking over entire body

for blood (blood-soaked clothing and for blood pooling on the floor or
ground). Bleeding requires the application of direct pressure over the
spot that is bleeding. Try to avoid contact with the victim’s blood by
using disposable latex gloves or extra layers of cloth or dressings.
5. Check for a spinal cord injury, especially when any event such as fall
or motor vehicle crush occurs that could produce a spinal cord injury.
Always assume a victim with a head injury has a spinal cord injury until proven otherwise. If the
victim is unconscious, a test of the spinal cord is the BABINSKI test.
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a) Stroke the bottom of the foot firmly toward the big toe with a key or similar sharp object.
The big toe goes down in normal adults (B). If the toe goes up (C), suspect a spinal cord
or brain injury. If a spinal cord injury is suspected, do not move the victim’s head or neck
and keep it stable with your hands.
Right
Left
C
B
A
b) Clothing may be hiding an injury. Removing clothes depend on what conditions or injuries
are found. The general rule is to remove as much clothing as necessary to determine
the presence or absence of a condition or injury. Avoid hypothermia (life threatening
condition resulting when body fails to maintain normal body temperature) since most
injured victims will be susceptible. If clothing needs to be removed which may prove
embarrassing to the victim and/or bystanders, explain what you intend to do and why.
First Aid Management

When a person is injured, the circulatory system is affected to some degree. The injured victim
should be automatically treated for shock. Shock refers to circulatory system failure. This happens
when oxygenated blood is not sufficiently provided in every parts of the body. It is one the common
causes of death in an injured victim. The damage caused by shock depends on which body part is
deprived of oxygen and how long it is deprived.
Signs of Shock:
a) Restlessness, anxiety, weakness
b) Rapid breathing and pulse
c) Pale or bluish skin, nail beds and lips
d) Moist and clammy skin
e) Thirst
f) Nausea, vomiting
g) Unconscious when shock is severe
First Aid to be applied – treat the victim for shock even if signs and symptoms have not
appeared. It can prevent shock from getting worse.
a) Check if the victim is talking or conscious, the airway is open.
b) Check if the victim is breathing or having breathing difficulties or
unusual sounds.
c) Check circulation by feeling for a heartbeat (pulse) at the side of
the neck.
d) Check for severe bleeding (hemorrhage) by looking over the entire
body.
e) Lay the victim down on his/her back. Those with head injuries or
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stroke victims should not lay flat on their backs. Slightly raise their heads if no spinal cord
injury is suspected.
f) Those with breathing difficulties, chest injuries or with a heart attack should be placed
half sitting position to help breathing.
g) Do not place unconscious or vomiting victims on their back. Place them in a “recovery
position.”
1) Roll victim on his/her side (if no head or neck injury)
2) Place hand of upper arm under chin to support head
3) Flex leg to prevent rolling
Keep legs straight
h) Raise the victim’s legs 8 to 12 inches. It allows
the blood to drain from the legs back to
the heart. Do not raise the legs more than
12 inches; it will affect the breathing of the
victim by having the abdominal organs
pushed up against the diaphragm. If the
victim has chest injuries, breathing difficulty 8” to 12”
and is unconscious, the legs should not be
raised. Place them in the proper position.
i) Prevent body heat loss by wrapping around the victim blankets, coats, etc. Do not warm
the victim unless he/she is hypothermic (when body fails to maintain normal body
temperature).
j) Do not give the victim anything to eat or drink. It could cause nausea and vomiting which
could be inhaled. It could also cause complications if surgery is needed. Sucking on a
clean cloth soaked in water will relieve a victim’s dry mouth.
k) Seek medical attention.
External and Internal Bleeding

An average sized adult has about 6 quarts of blood and can
safely lose a pint during blood donation. Rapid blood loss of one
quart or more can lead to shock and death. A child losing one pint of
blood is in extreme danger.
External bleeding is when blood can be seen coming from an
open wound.
Types of External Bleeding – the types of external bleeding can
be classified according to the source:
1. Arterial Bleeding – blood spurts from the wound. This is the most serious because blood
is being pumped out at a faster rate, leading to greater blood loss. This type of bleeding
is less likely to clot.
2. Venous bleeding – blood flows or gushes. It is easier to control than arterial bleeding.
Most veins collapse when cut.
3. Capillary bleeding – blood oozes from capillaries. This is the most common type of
bleeding and is easily controlled. Quite often, this type of bleeding clots off by itself.
The body naturally responds to bleeding by:
a) Blood vessel spasm – arteries contain small amounts of muscle tissues in their walls.
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b) Clotting – special elements (platelets) in the blood form a clot which seals over the hole
in 5-10 minutes.
(Source: Basbas et al. Learning & Living 9, p. 212)
What to Do When Bleeding Occurs:

1) Protect yourself against disease by wearing
disposable latex glove. If not avoidable, use several
layers of gauze pads, plastic wrap of bag or even
have the victim apply pressure with his/her hand.
2) Expose the wound by removing or cutting the
clothing to see where the blood is coming from.
3) Place a sterile gauze pad or clean cloth (handkerchief, wash cloth, or towel) over the entire
wound and apply direct pressure with your fingers or palm. The gauze or cloth allows pressure
to be applied evenly. Direct pressure stops most bleeding.
4) If bleeding does not stop in 10 minutes, the pressure may be too light
or in the wrong location. Press harder over a wider area for another 10
minutes. If the bleeding is from an arm or leg, at the same time elevate
the injured area above the heart’s level to reduce blood flow. Elevation
must be used in combination with the direct pressure over the wound.
5) If bleeding still continues, apply pressure at a pressure point to slow

the flow of blood in combination with direct pressure over the wound.
A pressure point exists where an artery is near the skin’s surface and
where it passes close to a bone against which it can be compressed.
6) After the bleeding stops or if you need to be free to attend to other

injuries or victims, apply pressure bandages on the wound. Wrap a
roller gauze bandage tightly over the dressing and above and below
the wound site.
7) Treat for shock by raising the legs 8-12 inches and covering the victim with a coat or blanket to
keep the victim warm.
Use a blanket or coat to

Raise legs 6-12 prevent body heat loss
inches
Keep legs
straight
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8) Check circulation in an arm or leg by monitoring the pulse and using the capillary refill test.
9) When direct pressure cannot be applied (i.e., protruding bone, skull fracture, open fracture,
embedded object), use a doughnut shaped (ring) pad to control the bleeding.
Weave remainder of
bandage around and Finished ring pad.
around the loop.
10) Make a ring pad by using a narrow bandage (roller) to form a loop around one hand by wrapping
one end of the bandage several times around your four fingers. Pass the other end through the
loop and wrap it around several times until the entire bandage is used and a ring is made.
What not to do when there is bleeding:

1) Do not touch a victim’s blood with bare hands, if used, it should be as a last resort. After the
bleeding has stopped and the wound has been cared for, wash your hands with soap and water.
2) Do not use direct pressure on an eye injury, wound with an embedded object, skull fracture or
open fracture.
3) Do not remove a blood-soaked dressing. Apply another dressing on top and keep pressing.
4) Do not apply a pressure bandage so tight that it cuts off circulation.
5) Do not use a tourniquet. They are rarely needed. A tourniquet can damage nerve and blood
vessels and may cause the loss of an arm or leg. If used, apply wide flat materials.
Internal bleeding occurs when the skin is unbroken, and blood is not seen. It can be
difficult to detect and can be life threatening.
Signs of Internal Bleeding – these may take days to appear:

1) Bruise or contusion of the skin
2) Painful, tender, rigid, bruised abdomen
3) Fractured ribs or bruises on chest
4) Weakness, dizziness, and fainting
5) Rapid pulse
6) Cold, moist skin Use fingers to lift chin
7) Vomiting or coughing up blood
8) Stools that are black or contain bright red blood
(Source: Basbas et al. – Learning &Living 9, p. 213)
What to do for Severe Internal Bleeding

1. Check if the airway is open and the victim is talking. Check if
the victim is breathing; check circulation by feeling heartbeat
(pulse) at the side of the neck (carotid artery), check for
Apply backward pressure
severe bleeding over the entire body for blood, check for a
to tilt head back
spinal cord injury.
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2. Expect vomiting. Keep the victim lying on his/her left side to prevent vomiting, for drainage,
and to protect the lungs from inhaling the vomit. Do not give the victim anything to eat or
drink.
3. Treat the shock by raising the victim’s legs 8-12 inches and cover the victim with a coat or
blanket to keep warm.
4. Seek medical attention immediately.
(Source: Basbas et al. Learning & Living 9, pp. 213-214)
For Bruises:
1. Apply an ice pack for 20 minutes. Protect the victim’s skin from frostbite by having a wet cloth
between the ice and the skin. The wet cloth transfers cold better than a dry one which insulates.
2. If the bruise is on an arm or leg, raise it if it is not broken.
3. If an arm or leg is involved, apply an elastic bandage with a pad over the bruise and between
the bandage and the skin.
Heart Attack – this happens when the blood supply to parts of the heart muscle itself is severely
reduced or stopped. This happens when one of the coronary arteries (the arteries that supply blood
to the heart muscle) is blocked by an obstruction or spasm.
Possible signs and symptoms of a heart attack:
1. Uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing, or pain in the center of the chest that lasts
for more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back.
2. Pain spreading to the shoulders, neck, or arms.
3. Chest discomfort with light headedness, fainting, sweating, nausea, or shortness of
breath.
Not all of these warning signs occur in every heart attack. It is difficult to determine
heart attacks. If ever these signs are present, insist on taking prompt action.
What to do when heart attack happens:
1. Call the Emergency Medical Service or get to the nearest hospital emergency department
that offers 24-hour emergency cardiac care.
2. Check the airway if it is open, his/her breathing, circulation by feeling heartbeat (pulse).
Give Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), if necessary and if you are properly trained.
3. Help the victim to the least painful position, usually sitting with legs up and bent at the
knees. Loosen clothing around the neck and midriff. Be calm and reassuring.
4. Determine if the victim is known to have coronary heart disease and is using nitroglycerin.
If so, help the victim use his/her nitroglycerin. This is a tablet, placed under the tongue, or
ointment placed on the skin and may relieve chest pain. It dilates the coronary arteries,
which increase blood flow to the heart muscles. It lowers the blood pressure and dilates
the vein which decreases the work of the heart and the heart muscle’s need for oxygen.
Stroke – it is a form of cardio-vascular disease affecting the arteries of the brain. It impairs
circulation to the brain. A stroke happens when a blood vessel in the brain bursts or is clogged by
a blood clot or some other particle. Because of this rupture or blockage, part of the brain does not
get the blood flow it needs. Without oxygen, brain cells in the affected area cannot function and die
within minutes. The effects of stroke are often permanent because dead brain cells are not replaced.
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Warning Signs for Stroke
1. Numbness, weakness, or paralysis of face, arm, or leg especially on one side of the body.
2. Sudden blurred or decreased vision in one eye or both.
3. Difficulty in speaking or understanding simple statements.
4. Loss of balance or coordination when combined with another warning sign.
5. Sudden unexplained headaches.
What to do when a stroke happens:

1. Check the airway if it is open, his/her breathing, circulation by feeling heartbeat (pulse).
2. Call the Emergency Medical Service immediately or bring to the nearest hospital.
3. Keep victim lying down in the “recovery position” with the head and upper body slightly raised.
Recovery Position:
a) Roll victim onto side (if no evidence of head or neck injury).
b) Place hand of upper arm under chin to support head.
c) Flex leg to prevent rolling.
4. Do not give anything to drink or eat. The throat may be paralyzed, which restricts swallowing.
Heat Stroke – a high body temperature damages tissues and organs throughout the body.
Untreated victims always die.
Types of Heat Stroke
1. Classic – this type affects young children, the elderly, chronically ill, obese, alcoholic,
diabetic, and those with circulatory problems. This is due to a combination of hot
environment and dehydration. It has a 50% death rate even with medical attention.
2. Exertional – these affect healthy, active individuals who work or play strenuously under
warm environment, 50% of its victims will be sweating.
Signs of Heat Stroke:
1. Hot skin with high body temperature.
2. Rapid breathing and pulse.
3. Altered mental status like confusion, disorientation, agitation, seizures, unconsciousness,
and bizarre behavior.
4. Dry or wet skin. Most victims have dry skin.
What to do for Heat Stroke

Heat Stroke is a life-threatening emergency. Delay in attending to the victim will cause serious
complications and death.
1. Check if the airway is open and the victim is talking.
Check if the victim is breathing; check circulation by
feeling heartbeat (pulse) at the side of the neck (carotid
artery). Check for severe bleeding if any, by looking over
the entire body for blood, check for spinal cord injury.
2. Seek medical attention immediately.
3. Bring victim to a cool place. Have the victim wear light cotton
clothing.
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4. In low humidity, cool the victim as much as possible, either by spraying small amounts of
water on the skin and fanning him/her vigorously, or covering victim with wet sheet or
cotton underwear and fanning him/her vigorously.
If in high humidity, place ice packs or areas with abundant blood supply, like the neck,
armpits, and groin.
If there is improvement in consciousness and mental status of the victim, stop cooling the
victim to prevent seizures and hypothermia (a life threatening condition resulting when
body fails to maintain normal body temperature).
5. Keep head and shoulders slightly elevated.
6. If seizures occur, treat the victim.
7. Acetaminophen or aspirin should not be used to reduce the high body temperature
because they have no effect. The brain’s hypothalamic set point during heat stroke is at
normal despite the high body temperature.
8. Alcohol should not be used in giving sponge to the victim because he/she may become
poisoned by absorbing it through the skin.
9. The victim should not be given anything to drink because of the risk of inhaling vomit
into the lungs.
Communicating Details of the Incident

Generally, when an emergency happens, you will know it. The usual reaction is to determine
how many people are injured. There may be more than one victim, so you look around and ask about
others who are involved. You can determine by the way the victim looks and the type of injuries seen.
If you think the injuries are serious and you cannot handle them, then it is time to call the emergency
medical service. Do not call anyone else first because it will only waste time.
Advantages in Calling the Emergency Medical Service

1. Victims will be moved by trained medical personnel.
2. The emergency medical technician who arrives with the ambulance knows what to do and they
are in contact through radio with physicians in the hospital.
3. Care provided by the emergency medical technicians at the scene on the way to the hospital
can affect the victim’s chances of survival and rate of recovery.
4. Time will be saved in getting the victim to the hospital. If the situation is not an emergency, call
a doctor, but if you are in doubt, call the emergency unit.
Give the following information to the Emergency Medical Service:

1. Give the address of the victim’s location and name. If possible give the landmarks, to make it
easier for emergency unit to locate the place.
2. Give your name and phone number to prevent false calls and allows the dispatch center to call
back for additional information if needed.
3. Tell the nature of the emergency (heart attack, stroke, etc.).
4. Give the number of persons needing help.
5. Give the victim’s condition (if conscious, breathing, etc.). When calling the EMS speak slowly
and clearly. Always be the last to hang up the phone.
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Remember These
1. An understanding of the common characteristics of older people furnishes the basis of
working with them satisfactorily.
2. Checking victim’s vital signs is divided into two parts, the primary survey for life-
threatening conditions and the secondary survey for non-emergency conditions.
3. It is the primary responsibility of the caregiver to make the patient calm and comfortable
during the illness or injury.
4. When a person is injured, the circulatory system is affected to some degree. The injured
victim should be treated for shock.
5. External bleeding is when blood can be seen coming from an open wound. Internal
bleeding occurs when the skin is unbroken and blood is not seen. It can be difficult to
detect and can be life-threatening.
Check Your Understanding
A. Fill the blanks with the correct word/words. Choose your answer from the box on the next
page:
1. Older people are generally more _________ than younger ones.
2. When a person is falling, don’t try to stop the ________, you could both be injured.
3. In giving first aid to a person with HIV use ________ equipment.
4. If a caregiver is exposed to blood of an HIV victim, get ________, treatment and counseling.
5. ________ survey is life-threatening conditions.
6. Check circulation by feeling for a ________.
7. ________ refers to circulatory failure.
8. External bleeding is when blood can be seen coming from an ________.
9. _________ bleeding is the most common type of bleeding and is easily controlled.
10. Internal bleeding occurs when the skin is ________ and blood is not seen.
11. Treat for shock by raising the victim’s ________ 8-12 inches.
12. ________ happens when blood supply to part of the heart muscle is severely reduced or
stopped.
13. Stroke is a form of ________ disease affecting the arteries of the brain.
14. Signs for stroke include numbness, weakness or ________ of face, arm or leg.
15. ________ is a high body temperature which damages tissues or an organ throughout the
body.
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cardiovascular heat stroke capillary shock
accident-prone open wound fall unbroken
medical help heartbeat paralysis care
heart attack primary protective leg
B. Explain
1. What should a caregiver do if he/she is exposed to the blood of an HBV victim?
2. What are the effects of stroke in our body?
Research To Do
Form four pairs and demonstrate the Basic First Aid Technique in checking victim’s vital signs.
1st Group – to check if the airway is open
2nd Group – check for breathing
3rd Group – check circulation of severe bleeding
4th Group – check for spinal cord injury
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Lesson 4
Responding to Emergency
Get Ready
Have you ever experience responding to an emergency for a sick person or an aged person?
Any person who is ill or suffering from an injury needs care. Regardless of age, ailment or illness,
or injury, the main purpose of caregiving is to give help and attention in order to be healthy.
In this lesson you will learn about illness, and how to control infection and administer
medication.
Read and Learn

When an infection starts, there can be some damage in the body. Prevention is the best way to
avoid this problem. Several basic principles of home caregiving should be observed in the handling
of any illness or injured person. The first is hygiene which is important to protect the patient and the
caregiver from infection.
Implementing Procedures for Infection Control and Prevention

The need for cleanliness is a must for caregivers. This is important to prevent the spread of germs
or bacteria that causes infection both for the caregiver and the patient or elderly. Elderly persons
are at greater risk because their immune system is weakened by their conditions they get old or by
diseases. To control the spread of germs or bacteria, the caregiver should practice simple infection
control procedures. Infection can be controlled by blocking or killing direct or indirect contact with
germs. Usually infections are spread through contact from one person to another or contact with the
things the infected person had touched or used.
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Other ways of controlling the spread of infection is by:
1. Frequent washing of the hands especially after caring the body of the person and after
going to the bathroom.
2. Wearing disposable gloves to control the spread of germs. Change gloves after every use
especially if they become contaminated with germs.
3. Cleansing and disinfecting the area contaminated with body fluids, kitchen surfaces,
bedpans, or commodes.
4. Immunization to protect the person or elderly and the caregiver against diseases.
Procedures in Controlling Wound Infection

Wounds whether large or small can be infected. An open wound is a break in the skin which
is the result of an injury or an operation and bleeding can be seen. If an infection starts, there can
be some damage in the body. Wounds need special treatment. These depend on their sizes and
how severe they are. Professional help is needed if the injury is large, severe, and the patient has
developed fever and swelling of the lymph nodes. Injury whether large or small, the aim of caring
should be the same, that is to prevent bacteria in entering the body that causes infection and speed
up healing.
The best way to prevent infection is to eliminate bacteria that come in contact with the patient
by:
1. Sterilizing equipment – bacteria can be destroyed by boiling, fire, radiation or chemical
disinfection, and steam under pressure.
Disposable equipment are:
• Sterilized gauge dressings
• Cotton balls and paper towels
• Foil containers for lotions
• Instruments, syringes, catheters
• Small plastic pockets of sterile lotion
Non-Disposable equipments are:
• Glass syringes
• Metal or plastic jugs and bowls
2. Antiseptic technique when applying dressings. A caregiver should observe some
precautions when dressing a wound to avoid contamination with microorganisms. If dust
and microorganisms are moved they may settle on the wound when the air is disturbed.
If the room is to be cleaned, dust the room at least one hour before applying the dressing
to allow the air to settle. Clean the trays to be used with soap and water and see to it that
the sterile packets are not damaged.
3. Using non-touch technique – it involves not
touching that comes into contact with the patient
and handling everything with forceps. You will
need the following:
• A tray or dressing cart
• Sterile bowl for lotion
• Sterile cotton swabs
• Sterile paper towels
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• Sterile gauge and cotton dressings
• Pairs of sterile dressing forceps
• Antiseptic lotion
• Plaster-removing solution
• Bandage or adhesive plaster
• Paper bag for soiled dressings
• Pair of scissor
Types of Dressings
1. Gauze pads – used for small wounds and comes in various sizes.
2. Adhesive strips – used for small cuts and are a combination of
sterile dressing and bandage.
3. Trauma dressings – made of large, thick, absorbent, sterile
materials.
4. Improvised dressings like a handkerchief or towel which should
be clean, absorbent, soft and free from lint and be sterilized.
Types of Bandages
1. Roller bandages – come in various widths, lengths,
and types of materials. They are for ankle, elbow,
arm, knee, and leg.
2. Self-adhering, conforming bandages– these come
as rolls of slightly elastic, gauze-like material.
3. Gauze roller – these are cotton rigid and non-elastic.
4. Elastic bandages – used for compression bandage for sprains, strains, and contusions.
triangular bandage
5. Improvised bandage – in the absence of roller
bandages, belt, necktie or tear strips of cloth from
a sheet or other similar material or substitute for
commercial roller bandage.
6. Triangular bandage are available commercially or
duct tape
can be made from a 36-40 inch of pre-shrunk cotton
muslin material that is cut diagonally from corner to
corner to produce two triangular pieces of cloth. mole skin mole foam
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Treat an Infected Wound by:
1. Keeping the area clean
2. Soaking it in warm water or applying warm packs
3. Elevating the infected part
4. Applying antibiotic ointment
5. Changing dressing daily
6. Seek medical help if the infection persists or become worst
Diseases and Cause of Death

Fever is the result of a generalized infection and
inflammation is the result of a localized infection. There is a special
group of illness called the communicable or infectious diseases,
all of which cause fever and inflammation of the skin or glands.
Characteristics of all Communicable Disease:

1. Each illness is capable of being transmitted to others.
2. There is a specified time, known as the incubation period, between the infection of the body by
the organism and the appearance of signs and symptoms.
3. In each illness, every patient has the same signs and symptoms, although these may vary in the
degree of severity.
4. Most communicable diseases have characteristics of skin rash.
5. Each disease lasts a certain number of days.
6. Each disease is liable to cause complications, some of which are mild and some may be serious.
Precautionary Measures to Prevent the Spread of Infection:

1. Place the patient in a well-ventilated room.
2. Bedpans and urinals should be taken to the lavatory immediately after use and the contents
flushed away.
3. Food left on the patient’s plate should be disposed quickly after he/she has finished.
4. To keep the bedroom and lavatory free from flies and insects use fly repellant spray.
5. The newspaper and magazines that the patient had read can be burned after use.
6. If the patient is a child, try and give him/her inexpensive toys that can either be burned or
washed thoroughly after he/she has recovered from illness.
7. The caregiver must also be careful not to transmit infection himself/herself. Wash hands after
attending to the patient, after emptying a bedpan, and when leaving the patient’s room before
handling anything else.
8. When the patient has recovered, strip the bed; wash the linen in a washing machine at a very
hot setting. Open the windows and air the room thoroughly.
(Source: Caring for the sick – page 109-112)
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Recognizing and Responding to Sign of Potential Illness
Disease Agents pertain to the microorganisms, germs, or many-celled animals which cause the
disease. Disease-Promoting Factors means conditions which attribute to a person becoming sick and
not due to pathogens or germs. Signs of Disease refer to those states which can be seen by other
persons such as paleness, blood-shot eyes, profuse bleeding, and skin rashes. Symptoms of Disease
include those conditions which are felt by the patient such as headache, stomachache, toothache,
joint pains, nausea, dizziness, and cramps. The signs and symptoms depend upon the disease.
A. Gastro-Intestinal Diseases (mainly Diarrhea in Nature)

1. Cholera
Disease Agent
Cholera vibrio – commonly spread by inadequate/unsanitary toilet facilities; cooking
malpractices; negligence in washing the hands with soap and water before and after
eating and after using the toilet; unsafe drinking water; presence of vectors such as flies
and cockroaches; failure to submit to the CDT (cholera, dysentery, typhoid) immunization
when necessary.
Signs and Symptoms
Excessive vomiting, profuse diarrhea with stool which is coffee-colored at first,
foul-smelling, then becomes like rice-water later; cramps in the abdomen; decrease urine
output; cold and sticky perspiration.
Treatment
If conscious, rehydrate through coconut water and mixture of 4 glasses of water
with 2 tablespoon of sugar and ½ teaspoon of salt. Give as much as the patient can take.
Seek medical supervision.
Prevention and Control – for cholera, dysentery, and typhoid
Use toilet facilities properly; wash hands with soap and water before and after
eating and after using the toilet; cook food well; drink clean and boiled water; eliminate
contacts with persons sick with the disease; store food in a clean, dry place; eradicate flies,
mosquitoes, and cockroaches and their breeding places, and submit to CDT immunization
when necessary.
2. Bacillary Dysentery or Shigellosis
Disease Agent
Shigella bacteria – spread the same way as cholera.
Signs and Symptoms
Sudden development of abdominal pain and cramps within 48 hours, watery stool
with blood and mucus, dehydration, fever, or change in consciousness.
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Treatment
Therapy for diarrhea and dehydration; soft and easily digested food in little amount
taken frequently; avoidance of milk; fibrous and fatty foods.
Prevention and Control
Same as cholera.
3. Amoebiasis or Amoebic Dysentery
Disease Agent
Endamoebahistolytica – spread the same way as the bacillary dysentery through eating
fresh vegetables, the source of which is questionable. One of the causes is drinking water.
Signs and Symptoms
Slow worsening bouts of diarrhea; foul-smelling stools streaked with fresh blood or
mucus; abdominal cramps; sometimes alternating with constipation over a period of 5 to
10 days; pain in defecation.
Treatment
Necessary medical supervision.
Same as for cholera and bacillary dysentery.
4. Typhoid (or Tipus)
Disease Agent
Typhoid bacilli – spread the same way as cholera and bacillary dysentery.
Signs and Symptoms
Fever, slow heart rate, rose-colored skin eruptions, spleen enlargement; at the
onset – general weakness, headache, nosebleed, fever gradually rises each day until it
reaches 40°C – higher in the evening than in the morning; poor appetite; coated tongue;
teeth and lips covered with a brownish deposit; diarrhea is common but there might
be constipation instead; offensive smelling which might be dark, green, or blackish;
distended abdomen and tender to the touch; fever often falls gradually on the third
week; convulsion. Headaches and delusion may occur.
Treatment
Medical supervision with antibiotics for shortening the course of the disease; plenty
of fluids; prevention of serious compilations and good nursing care.
Same as for cholera and dysentery.
B. Respiratory Diseases
1. Pneumonia
Disease Agents
Pneumococci, streptococci, staphylococci, Freidlander’s bacilli, and others – spread
through airborne microorganisms.
Signs and Symptoms
Violent attacks of shivering, high fever; stabbing chest pain; lack of appetite;
headache; cough often with yellow, pink, or rusty sputum; rapid and shallow breathing
with nostrils dilated with each breath.
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Treatment
Proper rest and sleep; normal diet with extra fluid; oxygen administration if breathing is
distressing medical steam inhalation; hot pack and fomentation and medical supervision.
Keep away from the patient; increase body resistance by having enough rest and sleep
and eating nutritious food; avoid exposure to extreme temperature; consult a physician.
2. Pulmonary Tuberculosis – PTB, Phthisis, or Wine Plaque
Disease Agents
Tubercle bacilli – spread of germs by infected persons through careless coughing,
sneezing, and spitting.
Signs and Symptoms
Undue fatigue; progressive loss in weight; loss of appetite; cough of more than two
weeks, especially upon waking up in the morning; afternoon fever; night sweating; and
sputum with blood.
Treatment
Proper rest and sleep, fresh air; well-balanced diet; medication prescribed by the physician
to be taken religiously, and surgery in serious cases.
Isolate the person suffering from tuberculosis. Increase body resistance; avoid contact
with tuberculosis individuals; if someone in the house has PTB, have all residents undergo
sputum examination; submit children to BCG immunization; advice the patient to use
his/her own utensils and cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing; burn tissue
paper wet with nasal and mouth discharge.
3. Influenza – Flu, Grippe (or Trangkaso)
Disease Agents
A, B, C, or other type of influenza virus; spread by nasal and mouth discharge of an infected
person.
Signs and Symptoms
General weakness; fever, sore throat, running nose, loss of appetite, inflammation of the
nose and pharynx.
Treatment
Medical supervision, warm bed rest: light diet with plenty of fluids; and proper hygiene.
Avoid crowded places, use your own toilet articles and handkerchief, increase body
resistance with nutritious food; avoid sudden change in temperature and observe
personal hygiene.
4. Bronchitis
Disease Agents
Usually viruses and bacteria or due to heavy smoking or air pollution, common
complication of measles, whooping cough, and typhoid fever.
Signs and Symptoms
Difficulty in breathing; tightness in the chest; back pain; mild fever, mild headache;
weakness; hoarseness and wheezing dry cough at the start and then with phlegm.
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Treatment
Medicine for pain and fever; avoid smoking and don’t take alcoholic drinks; and insure
good nursing care to prevent sick person from developing complications from measles,
whooping cough, or typhoid fever.
Build up body resistance: avoid smoking and don’t take alcoholic drinks; and insure
good nursing care to prevent sick person from developing complications from measles,
whooping cough, or typhoid fever.
C. Cardiovascular and Blood Diseases

1. Rheumatic Heart Disease
Disease Agents
Streptococci organisms in the throat causing inflammation and scarring of the heart and
abnormal flow of the blood.
Signs and Symptoms
Sore throat; fever with aching joints; profuse sweating; pains in the chest, shortness of
breath after exercise; palpitations; abdominal pain; and inflammation of the ankles.
Treatment
Regular medical check up and urgent medical supervision for frequent sore throats, bed
rest, and good nursing care.
Consult a physician promptly if sore is accompanied by fever, keep environment clean.
2. Coronary Heart Disease or Ischema
Disease-promoting Factors
Hereditary disposition; fat-rich diet leading to the narrowing of the coronary (heart)
arteries.
Signs and Symptoms
High blood pressure, difficulty in using a low pillow when sleeping, dizziness, headache,
profuse sweating, light-headedness, may faint.
Treatment
Medical supervision which includes anti-hypertensive drugs to dilate the arteries;
diuretics to decrease the amount of water and salt retained by the body; weight reduction;
avoidance of smoking; regular physical examination; and reporting signs and symptoms
to the physician and use of herbal therapy.
Avoid smoking and alcoholic drinks; avoid too much fat and salt; learn to relax; decrease
use of tea and coffee; build up resistance against kidney diseases; seek medical attention
for initial symptoms of the disease.
3. Arteriosclerosis or Hardening of the Arteries
Old age; hereditary tendencies; too much salt and fat in the diet; excessive smoking;
too much tea or coffee; too much nervous tension and infections especially syphilis and
those of the kidneys.
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Signs and Symptoms
Same as for coronary heart disease.
Same as for coronary heart disease.
4. Hypertension or High Blood Pressure
Old age; hereditary tendencies that thicken and harden the artery making them non-
elastic that the heart experiences difficulty in pumping the blood in the arteries which
later weakens.
Signs and Symptoms
Same as for arteriosclerosis.
Treatment
Same as for arteriosclerosis.
5. Congenital Heart Disease
Poor development of the heart valves or the primary blood vessels due to German
measles among pregnant women during the first three months of pregnancy.
Signs and Symptoms
Frequent chest cold; shortness of breath; pains over the heart; clubbing of the fingers and
toes; bluish skin; and retarded growth of the infant/child.
Treatment
Medical supervision by a cardiologist to determine the part of the heart with damage and
heart surgery.
Advice pregnant women (in their first three months of pregnancy) to build up their
resistance against German measles.
6. Malaria
Disease Agents
One or more of the four types of plasmodial malaria introduced in the blood by an
anopheles mosquito that has previously bitten a person with malaria.
Signs and Symptoms
Attacks of chill and fever for a few hours followed by drenching sweats every 2 or 3 days
(depending on the type of parasite), general weakness, anemia, and enlarged spleen.
Treatment
Early detection of the disease especially those in malarial region and professional help for
a diagnosis and treatment.
Destroy breeding places of mosquitoes and their larva; protect self from mosquito bites;
work for early detection of the disease; cooperate with malaria control workers through
screening of doors and windows; use of suitable clothes; and when malaria is suspected,
submit to blood test or take genuine tablets for prophylaxis.
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D. Other Diseases
1. Chicken Pox or Varicella
Disease Agents
Virus
Signs and Symptoms
Mild fever, backache, vomiting, lesions – first, red spots, like red pimples
followed by small blisters and finally, crust/scabs. The older the patient, the more
serious are the symptoms.
Treatment
Patient should stay at home lesions have developed, and crust have turned
brown; lessen scratching to avoid permanent scarring brought about by their
infection; take medicine prescribed by the physician.
Keep away from patient; practice hygiene; and keep environment clean.
2. Measles or Rubeola
Disease Agent
Virus
Signs and Symptoms
Sneezing; running nose; watery eyes which become sensitive to bright light;
hoarse and dry cough; pain and soreness in the chest; skin rash – pink spots first
seen behind the ears, on neck, roots of the hair, and on the forehead, and then
on the limbs or trunk; then spots grow darker and purplish before disappearing
forming irregular blotches.
In serious cases, high fever, delirium, cracked tongue, rapid pulse, and even
unconsciousness.
Treatment
Bed rest; intake of sufficient fluids; nutritious food; and medical assistance
to avoid complications such as broncho pneumonia, encephalitis, middle ear
infection, and exacerbation of latent TB.
Keep patient away from others; have babies vaccinated against measles and
build up body resistance.
3. German Measles or Rubella
Disease Agent
Virus
Signs and Symptoms
Not as severe as rubeola; may last for 3 to 4 days; mild skin enlarged lymph
nodes at the back of the head and neck.
Treatment
Same as for rubeola.
Pregnant women in their first three months of pregnancy should avoid
getting sick of this disease and have infants vaccinated against German measles.
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4. Dengue Fever or Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF)
Disease Agent
Dengue virus is spread by the bite of an infected female Aedes aegypti mosquito
which carries the virus and transmits the disease through its bite to other person
who in turn becomes ill.
Two Forms of Dengue:

1. Dengue Fever – A severe flu-like illness that affects older children and adults but rarely causes
death.
Signs and Symptoms
Abrupt onset of high fever, pain behind the eyes which worsen with eye
movement, muscles and joint pains, loss of sense of taste and appetite, measles-like rash over
chest and upper limbs, nausea, and vomiting.
2. Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) – A more severe form in which bleeding and occasional
shock occur leading to death, is more serious in children.
Signs and Symptoms
Similar to dengue fever with severe and continuous stomach pain; pale, cold or clammy
skin; bleeding from the nose, mouth, and gums and skin bruising, frequent vomiting with or
without blood; sleepiness and restlessness; constant crying; excessive thirst (dry mouth), rapid,
weak pulse, difficulty in breathing, and fainting.
(Source: Basbas et al. Learning & Living IV. pp. 24-25)
Treatment
No drug to cure dengue or vaccine to prevent it, medical supervision needed: bed rest,
plenty of fluids, hot formentation on painful areas, and ice bag for headache.
Eliminate mosquito breeding places by covering water containers tightly and removing
garbage articles around the house that collect water. Protect yourself from mosquito bites
through mosquito coils, electric vapor mats, mosquito nets, skin repellants, and screens on
doors and windows. Use insecticides through spraying and fogging. Isolate patients suffering
from dengue fever for at least 15 days. Report any suspected case of dengue fever in the
neighborhood to the nearest health center.
Iron Anemia
Lack of iron in the diet, intestinal parasitism (hookworm); repeated pregnancies or
abortion resulting in the deficiency of oxygen-carrying material of the blood; and
frequent profuse menstrual flow.
Signs and Symptoms
Paleness of the conjunctiva and gums; weakness and dizziness; lack of appetite; shortness
of breath; palpitations, headache; irritability and restlessness; numbness; tingling in the
extremities; fissures or sores of the corners of the mouth.
Treatment
Eat foods containing iron and medical attention.
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Eat foods rich in iron such as dilis, liver, papaya, ampalaya, and other green vegetables.
Avoid over fatigue. Consult a physician if there is profuse menstruation (among women).
Cancer
Uncontrolled growth and multiplication of abnormal body cells which often form a mass or
tumor.
Exposure to radiation; exposure to coal tars (tobacco), arsenics, nitrates and other chemicals;
air pollution; familial tendencies; chronic alcoholism; trauma or injury; ultraviolet rays from the
sun; and other viruses.
Seven Danger Signals of Cancer
Change in bowel or bladder habits; a sore that does not heal; unusual bleeding or
discharge; thickening or lumps in the breast or elsewhere; indigestion or difficulty in swallowing;
obvious change in the wart or mole; and nagging cough or hoarseness.
(Source: Basbas et al. Learning & Living IV. p. 26)
Treatment
Medical help with early detection and treatment; chemotherapy; irradiation therapy and
surgery.
At the first suspicion of cancer, seek medical help. Avoid too much sunbathing, smoking and
drinking liquors, eating pork and beef, taking hormonal preparations, excessive use of food
coloring and seasoning.
Allergy
Sensitivity of a person to an offending agent called allergen without producing similar
effects to an average individual with successive exposures.
Inhalation of allergens such as pollen, dust, vapors, odors; eating certain foods such as
chocolates, eggs, chicken, shrimps, and other crustaceans; taking of some drugs and injectibles,
more contact with the skin or mucous membrane of certain dyes and physical agents like light,
heat, and cold.
Signs and Symptoms
Sneezing; rhinitis (runny nose); congestion and swelling of the bronchial lining with too much
mucus that the person experiences difficulty in expelling air than taking in (asthma); eczema
(weeping lesions); itchiness; breathing difficulty.
Treatment
Upon identification of the allergen, avoid the offending agent; stay indoors if sensitive to
blooming plants in season, avoid drugs you are sensitive to; desensitize though building of the
body tolerance to some drugs by gradual administration in increasing amount of the allergen
and taking antihistamines prescribed by doctor.
Consult a physician immediately especially when symptoms are serious. Subject patient to a
series of sensitivity tests for allergy. Remove offending allergen.
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Diabetes Mellitus
Disease in the secretion of insulin by the Islets of the Langerhans resulting in the increase of
blood sugar; due to hereditary or family tendency or diet with too much sugar, salt, and fats.
Signs and Symptoms
Tiredness or weakness; frequent urination; excessive thirst; extreme hunger; blurred vision;
itching; tingling or numbness in hands and feet; wounds that do not heal; vaginal infection;
tuberculosis; and other recurrent infections.
Treatment
Medical supervision; low-salt; low-fat; and less sugar in the diet; insulin therapy when necessary;
immediate attention to wound healing.
Eat more fruits and vegetables; avoid soft drinks, concentrated fruit juices, and junk foods;
reduce intake of sweet, fatty, and salty food; have regular exercise; stop smoking and avoid
drinking alcohol; keep within the ideal body weight and discourage marriages between
families with diabetes.
Classification of Disease
Morbidity is due to common and uncommon diseases, communicable and non-communicable
diseases which are part and parcel of living. A meaningful understanding of such types of diseases is
essential in being able to lead purposive, productive, and healthful lives.
In this connection, there is a need to distinguish between common and uncommon diseases
based on frequency or occurrences. Children’s diseases generally differ from adult diseases. What
may be common among children may not be necessarily common among adults.
Let us focus on the children’s common and uncommon diseases. Common diseases are those
affecting many children during the childhood years irrespective of sex, economic status of the
parents, and the place where they live. These include colds, measles, chicken pox, and dengue fever
based on the latest Department of Health data. Uncommon diseases are rare or unusual. Their victims
are composed of very small percentage of the number of people in the country. Not many children
and adults get sick of them.
Diseases may also be categorized as communicable and non-communicable. Communicable
diseases are caused by microorganisms or macro-organisms and are transferred from one person
to another through direct and indirect contacts. These diseases are caused by germs or pathogens
(disease producing organisms) or biological disease agents. These pathogens vary in size from the
smallest virus which can be seen through an electron microscope to the multicellular which can be
seen by the naked eye. These are viruses causing measles, mumps, chicken pox, and colds. Some
bacteria cause tuberculosis, typhoid, pneumonia, and syphilis. Amoebiasis and malaria are due to
one-celled animals while scabies, intestinal parasites, and head lice can be traced to many-celled
animals. Since communicable diseases can be transmitted through direct and indirect means,
measure can be planned to prevent and control them.
Non-communicable or non-infectious diseases are not brought about by microorganisms or
pathogens. They are due to several factors. Some non-infectious diseases are the following:
1. Organic – caused by malfunctioning of a body part, e.g. enlarged heart and nephritis.
2. Functional – due to the emotional trauma or experiences of the individual, e.g. nervous
breakdown due to the death of a relative, kleptomania, or being paranoid.
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3. Congenital – brought about by conditions during fetal life and the baby is born with it,
e.g. abnormal mitral valve of the heart.
4. Degenerative – brought about by old age or other factors wherein body cells deteriorate
and lose their resiliency, e.g. arteriosclerosis, arthritis.
5. Nutritional – triggered by lack of intake of nutrients, e.g. malnutrition – iron anemia,
common goiter and kwashiorkor; overnutrition – hypertension, kidney stones, and tooth
decay.
6. Endocrine – due to improper functioning of the endocrine glands, e.g. gigantism,
dwarfism, and diabetes mellitus.
7. Cardiovascular – resulting from the improper functioning of the heart and blood vessels,
e.g. coronary heart disease and arteriosclerosis.
8. Radiological – due to exposure to radioactive materials, e.g. leukemia and cancers due
to exposure to radioactive elements.
9. Physical – those due to injuries suffered by a body part, e.g. fractures and dislocations
due to accidents.
10. Allergenic – due to a person’s sensitivity to exposure to offending and resulting in
exaggerated reactions such as itching, skin rashes, sneezing, respiratory difficulty, shock,
or even death, e.g. sensitivity to pollen grain, animal fur, and flowers or eating eggs,
shrimps or chicken.
Practice Hygiene and Health Principles

1. Maintain body cleanliness through soap and water baths and brushing of teeth after meals.
2. Wash hands with soap and water after using the toilet and before eating.
3. Avoid using common or unclean eating, drinking, or toilet articles such as combs, toothbrush,
towels, cups or glasses, and the likes.
4. Keep unclean articles away from the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, genital areas, scratches, and sores.
5. Take well-balanced meals.
6. Exercise daily or at least three times a week.
7. Have adequate rest and sleep.
8. Breathe fresh air as much as possible.
9. Have regular body elimination.
10. Cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Don’t spit anywhere.
11. Avoid exposure to extreme temperature. Wear appropriate clothes for hot and cold weather.
12. Avoid self-medication and taking unprescribed drugs.
13. Keep the home and surrounding clean.
14. Submit to the necessary immunization against communicable diseases.
15. Avoid making contacts with people who are sick with infectious diseases.
16. Consult a physician if you don’t feel well and exhibit the symptoms of a certain disease. If
possible have regular health check-ups.
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Administering Medications within Guidelines
One of the most important duties of a home caregiver is
the administration of medicine to the patient. He/She should
be careful in giving medicine. He/She must follow the doctor’s
instructions very carefully as this can affect the patient’s speedy
recovery or worsening condition.
Seven Rights to Remember Directions in Giving Medicine

There are seven rights to remember and to follow as far
as management in giving medicine is concerned. They are as
follows:
1. Patient – refers to the patient’s condition and his/her capability and willingness to take
the medicine given. The patient should be aware as well as understand why medicine is
being administered to him/her.
2. Drug/Medicine – refers to the kind of medicine to be administered. It is the right of the
patient to know what medicine he/she is taking and why.
3. Dose – refers to the amount or quantity of medicine to be administered.
4. Time – refers to the proper time the medicine is to be administered.
5. Route – refers to the channel in which medicine is to be administered. Is it by mouth, by
intramuscular injection, intravenous injection, or by topical means?
6. Reason – knowing the reason why the medicine is being given makes it easy to administer
the medicine for the caregiver to give and for the patient to accept.
7. Documentation – putting into records all details relating to what medicine, how much,
when and to whom it is administered is important for assessment and future references
by doctor, the caregiver, the family, and the patient.
Preparations in Giving Medicines

There are several drugs or medicines that are administered through the mouth. Some of these
are capsules, pills, tablets, powder, and liquids. Each type of medicine has different procedure of
administration but before any procedure is followed always be ready with the following:
1. A small tray
2. A glass of water
3. The prescribed drug
4. A spoon/medicine cups
5. Pen and paper to record information about the medicine that
is given, the time, amount, etc., to keep the medicine and the
succeeding administration organized.
A medicine cabinet should be out of a child’s reach and
above his/her eye level. If it is kept locked with no key visible,
you can be fairly sure that the child is safe.
Types of Medicine
A. Tablets, Capsules, and Pills
The caregiver should first read the label of the bottle to see if it is the right medicine. You
should have the correct number of tablets in a spoon. Never use your hand in handling tablets,
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always use a spoon. Give the tablet to the patient with a glass of water then make sure that
the patient swallows the tablet. Children, particularly five years old and below, find it hard to
swallow the tablet, so you have to crush the tablet between two metal spoons. This way, the
tablet becomes powdered which can be easily swallowed. Sometimes, children do not like the
taste of the tablet. In this case you have to mix it with sugar, jam, or anything that is sweet.
Some tablets are hard, so you have to place the tablet in a spoon and put a few drops of
water to dissolve the tablet, and then give it to the patient with water or juice.
Capsules are designed to dissolve in the stomach, which is why they should not be
opened. Pills and capsules are sometimes hard to swallow. The technique is to place the pill
or capsule at the back of the tongue, then concentrate on swallowing followed by drinking of
water or juice.
B. Liquid Medicines
1. Always check the label of the bottle to see if it is the right medicine. With a finger on top
of the cap, shake the bottle in an upward direction.
2. Pour the medicine into a small measuring cup, a tablespoon, or teaspoon depending on
the dosage given by the doctor. Pour the medicine at eye level to ensure the accuracy of
the amount. Give it to the patient with a glass of water or juice.
3. Replace the cap, wipe the bottle, and store it in a cool place. Then wash the spoon.
Caution must be observed, such as the following:

1. Never mix the medicine with a glass of beverage because the medicine could sink at the
bottom of the glass and the patient may not receive the right amount required.
2. In giving medicines to babies, never add the medicine to the content of the feeding bottle
for it may cause the same problem. Do not press or hold the nose of the child when taking
medicine. This forces the child to swallow the medicine but may bring harm because the
child may breathe the medicine into his/her lungs.
C. Ointment
An ointment is generally applied to the skin. It has base substance such as fat or greasy
substances like petroleum jelly. Ointment is applied directly to the affected part of the body
as directed by the doctor. An instruction of application is usually found on the label of the
container. Application of an ointment into the eye is simple: just put the ointment on the lower
lid of the eye to avoid touching the sensitive lid with the tip of the tube. Some ointments are
applied with an applicator or by using cotton.
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D. Powder
Powder can be mixed with something sweet such as peanut butter or jam and sometimes,
it can be mixed with a little amount of juice or milk before giving it to the patient.
E. Back Rub
In applying back rub, the doctor must first be consulted. Patients with problems in the
spinal cord or fractures at the back cannot be given back rub. The medicine is simply applied
on the back using the palms in a circular motion. The heat generated by the ointment and the
circular motion of the palms give a soothing effect which relieves the pain.
Administering Medicine through the Rectum

A. Giving a Suppository. A suppository is a capsule-shaped drug which causes the bowel empty. The
suppository is placed inside the rectum where it melts at body temperature. In administering
the medication, first wash your hands and wear a glove. Tell the patient to urinate and let
the patient lie on the left side with his/her knees drawn up. Make the patient breathe deeply
through the mouth. You must first dip the suppository in warm water before inserting it. Insert
the suppository gently into the rectum, pushing it as far as possible. Dispose the glove properly
and wash your hands. Tell the patient to maintain the suppository for as long as possible before
bowel movement. When bowel action takes place, be sure to record the stool, its color, size, and
consistency.
A. Giving an Enema. An enema is fluid injected into the rectum for the purpose of stimulating a
bowel movement. It is a fluid contained in a plastic bag with a nozzle.
Wash your hands and tell your patient to lie down on the left side with knees drawn
up. Place a cover under the buttocks to protect the bed. Make the patient relax and breathe
through the mouth. Before inserting the nozzle, put a small amount of petroleum jelly at the
tip of the nozzle and insert it gently into the rectum about 3-9 inches. Avoid damaging the
rectal wall. Squeeze the content gently then withdraw the nozzle and dispose it properly. The
patient should retain the enema as long as possible. After the bowel movement, record all
details regarding the stool.
Medication by Inhalation
These are drugs that make use of inhalation. The following are materials needed in this
procedure:
1. Large bowl of approximately 8 cups capacity.
2. Tray for the bowl
3. Boiling water
4. Pipe with 3 inches diameter
5. Bath towel
Procedure
1. Fill almost half of the bowl with hot water and add the drug. Then pour the remaining hot
water, but do not fill the bowl.
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2. Place the bath towel over the head of the patient and let the patient inhale the steam
through the pipe (or without the pipe). Make sure to inhale through the mouth and
exhale through the nose for about 10 to 15 minutes.
3. After treatment, make the patient relax and clean him/her up.
Medication by Injection
Injections are administered by doctors and professional nurses. These
are different types of injections, one of which is what we call subcutaneous
injections. These are injections under the skin. The other is called
intramuscular injection which is injected deeper into the muscles, and the
last is intravenous injection which is done through the vein.
Medication by Drops
There are different kinds of drops. Some drops are for the eyes, ear, nose, and mouth. These
drugs are commonly contained in small plastic bottles with built-in droppers. Always keep these
drugs away from children because these can be fatal if swallowed.
1. Eye Drops
Always make sure that you follow the instructions of the doctor
because some eye drops are administered either to one or both eyes.
A mistake can be fatal or can lead to blindness. Wash your hands and
ask your patient to sit with his/her eyes wide open looking upward.
Place the dropper in a slanting position above the eyes. Drop the
medicine in the lower eyelid and have the patient close his/her eyes
and blink several times to spread the drop to the whole surface of
the eye.
2. Ear Drops
Check for specific instructions on the label before administering. Some drops need to be
warmed in warm water before use. Before administering, be sure to wash your hands. Tell
the patient to lie down or sit with the affected area in an uppermost position. Place the tip
of the dropper near the ear so that drops may slide down inside the ear. Ask the patient to
maintain the position for a few minutes.
3. Nasal Drops
Make sure that you wash your hands. Ask the patient to lie down on his/her back with the
head hanging over the edge of the bed. Make sure that the head is lifted back as possible.
Insert the tip of the dropper just inside the nostrils and allow the medicine to flow inside.
Maintain the position for a few minutes. Always ask prescriptions and instructions from
the doctor before administering any kind of drops.
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Different Kinds of Medicine
A. Oral Medicines
1. Tablets
Tablets contain the medicine’s active component combined with other ingredients in a
compressed solid dosage form. In today’s high technology, tablets have evolved in many
different forms to cater to the needs of different kinds of people with different conditions.
Here are the kinds of tablets:
a. Sublingual Tablet
This tablet is placed under the tongue and the medicine is absorbed rapidly into
the blood vessels.
b. Soluble Effervescent Tablet
This tablet dissolves in water to release the medicine. The liquid preparation is then
drunk.
c. Chewable Tablet
This tablet is chewed to break down in smaller pieces for easy swallowing. The
coating on this tablet is special; it delays the release of medicine until it has passed
the stomach.
d. Slow-release Tablet
Some conditions require a tablet that releases the medicine slowly over a longer
period of time. This is how a slow-release tablets works. It should be taken according
to the prescribed hour and dosage.
2. Capsules
Capsules are solid dosage forms containing drug inside little hard or soft containers or
shells made out of gelatin.
Here are the kinds of capsules:
a. Hard Gelatin Capsule
These consist of two compartments, one slipped over the other; hence, completely
surrounding the medicine.
b. Soft Gelatin Capsule
It is a soft gelatin containing the medicine inside.
c. Enteric Capsule
This capsule only releases its medicine when it reaches the intestine.
d. Slow-release Capsule
This capsule is the same as the slow-release tablet. It releases its medicine after
prolonged period of time.
3. Liquids
Liquids are oral medicines combined with preservatives, flavors, colors, and some other
ingredients. This medicine is only prescribed to patients who are having difficulty in
swallowing tablets or capsules.
B. Injections
Injection may be done in four ways: Intramuscular (into the muscles), intravenously (into the
vein), intracutaenously or interdermally (into the skin), and subcutaneously (under the skin). This
process of administration is only done by qualified medical personnel.
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C. Suppository
Suppository is a medicated solid dosage which is inserted to the rectum. This is to treat
hemorrhoids or to loosen bowels during constipation.
D. Topical Medicines
These are drug preparations that are applied usually on the skin, eyes, ear, and nose. Most of
them can be bought without prescription.
Skin preparation may come in the form of ointments, creams, lotion, or patches. Ear and eye
preparations may come in the form of drops or ointment. Nose preparations may come in the
form of drops or sprays.
E. Inhaler
An inhaler can be used with a sprayer – a device that holds medication until you breathe it in.
This is usually used as asthma medication.
Responding to Threats and Situations of Danger

Diseases whether communicable or non-communicable are considered threat to the health
of every individual. It is one of the country’s most serious problems. Every family must have the
knowledge about diseases, the ways and means to prevent and control their spread.
Diseases impair the performance of a normal body function. A disease indicates the failure of
the adaptive mechanism of a person to adequately counteract the disease or factor/stress to which
the body is subjected. This results in disturbance in function or structure to some parts of the body.
Some communicable diseases still prevail but non-communicable diseases are on the rise. Such
diseases need attention, commitment, and mobilization if Filipinos are to uplift the nation’s health.
The possibility of preventing diseases must be faced jointly, realistically, and intelligently. After
acquiring some information about communicable and non-communicable diseases, everybody
must help implement some preventive and control measures against diseases so that citizens can
function optimally for happier and more useful life. Disease prevention is better than cure. It implies
less time, money, and effort than cure.
Applying emergency procedure to ensure safety of children and worker

A. For child and adult resuscitation
1. If you are attending to a motionless person, check
responsiveness.
• If head or neck injury is suspected, move only if
absolutely necessary.
• Tap or gently shake the victim’s shoulder.
• Shout near victim’s ear, “Are you ok?”
2. Activate the emergency system for help
• Ask a bystander to call the local emergency telephone
number.
• If alone, shout for help. If no one comes quickly, call the
emergency telephone number. If someone comes quickly,
ask him/her to call.
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3. Roll person onto back
• Gently roll victim’s head, body, and legs over the
same time. Do this without further injuring the
victim.
4. Open airway (use head-tilt/chin-lift method)
• If you suspect a neck injury, do not move victim’s
head or neck. First try lifting chin without tilting
head back. If breaths do not go in, slowly and gently tilt the head back until breaths can
go in.
5. Check for breathing (take 3-5 seconds)
• Place your ear over victim’s mouth and nose while keeping airway open.
• Look at victim’s chest to check for rise and fall; listen and feel for breathing.
6. Give two slow breaths Use fingers to lift chin
• Keep head tilted back with head-tilt/chin-lift to keep
airway open.
• Pinch nose shut
• Take a deep breath and seal your lips tightly around
victim’s mouth.
• Give two slow breaths, each lasting 1 ½ to a seconds
(you should take a breath after each breath given to
victim). For a child, give 1 to 1 ½ seconds breaths.
• Watch chest rise to see if your breaths go in. Apply backward pressure
to tilt head back
• Allow for chest deflation after each breath.
7. Check for pulse
Keep head tilted back.
• Maintain head-tilt with hand nearest head
or forehead.
• Locate Adam’s apple with 2 or 3 fingers of
Locate Adam’s apple
hand.
with 2 of 3 fingers
• Slide your fingers down into the groove
of neck on side closest to you (do not use
your thumb because you may feel your Slide fingers into groove
own pulse). of neck closest to you.
• Feel for carotid pulse (take 5-10 seconds).
Carotid artery is used because it lies close
to the heart and is accessible.
8. Perform rescue procedures based upon what
you found. If there is a pulse but no breathing,
give one rescue breath (mouth-to-mouth resuscitation) every 5-6 seconds. For a child, give one
breath every 3 seconds.
Use the same technique for rescue breathing found in step 6 but only give one. Every minute
(10-12 breaths), stop and check the pulse to make sure there is a pulse. Continue until victim
starts breathing on his/her own.
(Source: First Aid Handbook. pp. 16-18)
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Relieving Asthma and Hiccups
The spasm that occurs in asthma is relieved by various tablets, injections
and aerosol sprays prescribed for the patient by the doctor. Make sure that they
are always within the patient’s reach and that he/she has a bell near him/her so
that he/she can summon you if he/she has an attack. Tight clothing should be
avoided, especially around the neck, as during an attack, an asthmatic feels as
if he/she is being strangled. A child subject to regular asthmatic attacks can be
taught how to use a simple inhaler or aerosol spray.
Hiccups occur when the large muscle dividing the abdominal and chest
cavities (known as the diaphragm) goes into spasm. Hiccups can be extremely
distressing especially if prolonged. Sit the patient upright and try the everyday
remedies; get him/her to hold his/her breath, to drink from the opposite side of
the glass from the one normally held to the mouth, or to blow up a paper bag.
In the majority of cases, one of these methods will work. If, however, the attack
is prolonged and distressing, notify the doctor.
Remember These
1. When an infection starts, there can be some damages in the body. Prevention is the best
way to avoid this problem.
2. Simple infection control practices can help control the spread of germs.
3. Disease agent pertains to the microorganisms, germs, or many-celled animals which
cause diseases.
4. There are seven rights to remember and to follow as far as management in giving
medicine is concerned.
5. Diseases whether communicable or non communicable are considered threat to the
health of every individual.

A. Underline the correct answer.
1. (Control, Prevention, Spread) is the best way to avoid infection.
2. Most communicable diseases have characteristics of (skin rashes, pain, allergy).
3. Food left on the patient’s plate should be (kept, disposed, preserved).
4. A (disease-agent, disease-promoting factor, sign) means condition which attribute to a
person becoming sick and not due to pathogens or germs.
5. (Symptoms, of Disease, Signs of Disease, Disease Agent) includes those conditions which
are felt by the patient such as headache and stomachache.
6. Fever, slow heart rate, rose-colored skin eruptions, spleen enlargement are symptoms for
(pneumonia, typhoid, cholera).
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7. Undue fatigue, progressive loss in weight, loss of appetite, cough are symptoms of the
disease (tuberculosis, pneumonia, influenza).
8. Respiratory diseases are the following except one (pneumonia, dysentery, influenza).
9. Cardiovascular diseases are the following except one (rheumatic heart, influenza,
hypertension).
10. The disease (amoebiasis, bronchitis, chicken pox) usually comes from viruses, bacteria, or
due to heavy smoking or air pollution.
11. Diseases that are rare and unusual are said to be (common, uncommon, extraordinary).
12. There are (8, 6, 7) rights to remember and to follow in giving medicine to patients.
13. Diseases (control, impair, lessen) the performance of a normal body function.
14. Disease prevention is better than (cure, spreading, avoiding).
15. During an asthmatic attack tight clothing should be (worn, avoided, loosen).
B. Explain
1. What is the best way to prevent infection?
2. Differentiate the following:
a) Disease Agent
b) Disease-Promoting Factors
c) Signs of Diseases
d) Symptoms of a Disease
Research To Do
Divide the class into groups of four students. Assign each group to do role play or dramatization
on ways of providing care and support to an elderly person. Each group may choose any of the
following:
1. Maintaining an appropriate relationship with the elderly
2. Providing assistance with the elderly’s personal care
3. Basic needs of an aged person
4. Assistive devices for providing assistance to the elderly
5. Elderly’s personal hygiene
6. Providing appropriate support to the elderly
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Lesson 5
Cleaning Living Room, Dining Room, Toilet, and Bathroom
Get Ready
One should develop the habit of providing clean and orderly housing facilities and surroundings.
The living, dining rooms, toilet and bathroom requires thorough cleaning. There should be no visible
dirt and must be properly sanitized so that all germs and bacteria are killed with the use of sanitizing
chemicals. This will insure a sanitized environment and the occupants are protected from possible
diseases.
This lesson discusses the importance of keeping the rooms clean, orderly, and pleasant to make
the occupants comfortable.
Read and Learn

The living and dining rooms, toilet, and bathroom should be immaculately clean. It is essential
to keep these rooms free from pathogenic organisms or germs to protect the occupants from illness.
Furniture and furnishings should be dusted every day and curtains should be removed and changed
when already dusty. The home must be equipped with appropriate cleaning supplies and materials.
Cleaning Surfaces, Floors, Furnishings, and Fixtures

Cleaning is greatly dependent on the skills of the cleaner and on the availability of the cleaning
materials, supplies, and equipment, and how they are properly used.
Different types or make of floors require daily maintenance to avoid accumulation of dirt and
keep the floor clean, neat, and shiny.
1. Vinyl floors – wet mopping and polishing
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2. Concrete floors – sweeping
3. Carpeted floors – sweeping, vacuuming
4. Wood and Parquet floors – spray, buffing, and vacuuming
5. Marbled/Granite– sweeping, wet mopping, and polishing
Furniture and Fixtures:

1. Living and dining room sets
2. TV set and stand
3. Computer set and stand
4. Shelves, cabinets, wall frames, lamps, decors, mirrors, and other fixtures found in the
room
5. Paneling, desk, kitchen surfaces, countertops
6. Doors and windows
Cleaning of Different Types of Floors

1. Vinyl, Concrete, Marbled/Granite Floors
a) Sweep with broom to remove dirt and litter.
b) Scrape sticky dirt using a putty knife.
c) Mop messy spots and stains. Use a clean and wet mop.
d) If messy spots and stains are stubborn, apply detergent solution, scrub lightly on stained
area, rinse with plain water and wipe dry with a clean dry mop.
e) For general cleaning of busy floors where dirt and dust accumulates fast, use 3-bucket
cleaning system.
The Three-Bucket Cleaning System

I. Materials and Chemical needed:
3 buckets or pails containing water for rinsing
Cleaning detergent solution
Extra bucket for emptying used chemical and water
2 floor mop or rags
II. Procedure:
a) Dip floor mop into detergent solution
b) Wipe area to be cleaned
c) Squeeze the mop into an empty bucket
d) Place second floor mop into clean water
e) Wipe area
f) Squeeze mop into the empty bucket
g) Replace water with clean one if necessary
h) Move into another area
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2. Wood and Parquet Floors
A. Initial Care
a) Have the floor properly sanded. This is to bring out the natural color of wood and
make it finely textured and completely clean.
b) Vacuum clean – this is to remove all hidden dirt and dust especially in-between
woods, on corners, sides and edges.
c) Fill or seal it with three (3) coats of sealer then buff between applications. A polymer
sealer maybe used for this purpose.
d) Apply solvent-based wax. This is a kerosene-based wax specifically used for wood
and parquet floors.
B. Daily Care
a) Buff with floor polisher using a buffing brush to bring out the gloss of the waxed floor.
b) Apply second coating of wax then buff again. The second coating gives a more glossy
finished and makes the floor more resistant to stains, dirt, and water drippings.
c) Mop every day with a wax treated dust mop.
d) Damp mop (only when necessary) with just little amount of moisture.
3. Carpeted floors
Carpeted floors need more attention than other types of floor. Carpets are made of fibers
that when untreated or treated improperly can turn the fibers faded and worn-out ending up
with a worn-out looking carpet.
Daily Care:
a) Vacuum dirt on carpet using a vacuum cleaner.
b) If carpet is heavily soiled, then shampooing is needed using either the manual method or
the use of shampooing machine.
c) If carpet is lightly soiled, then spot shampooing is needed using the manual method –
For spot shampooing:
• Brush blot or vacuum as much foreign materials as possible.
• Apply carpet shampoo cleaner as directed. Do not use excessive water.
• Wash spot from the outside to the center to avoid spreading the stain.
• After spot washing, blot with absorbent tissue or cloth. Repeat blotting until stain is
completely removed.
• If some stains remain, do another treatment or spotting.
• Dry carpet completely.
For carpet shampooing:
• Clear carpet of all furniture.
• Vacuum dirt thoroughly.
• Spot and remove stains. Follow manual instructions for chemical dilutions.
• Start shampooing, from side to center of surface.
• Work the machine along sides and corners if using a rotary system handle machine from
left to right with overlapping strokes. If using an extractor method, work on lanes, also
overlapping each stroke. Carpet is then rinsed after extraction.
• Do not over wet the carpet.
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• Let it dry completely.
• Reset pile of brushing with a soft brush.
• Vacuum thoroughly to remove foam residue.
Dealing with Carpet Stains and Spills

Carpet stains and spills are a sore sight. It tarnishes the aesthetic and hygienic appeal of the
carpet. When stains appear because of spills, do the following:
• Wipe out the spill as soon as it occurs to avoid scattering and leaving a permanent mark.
• Scrape the soiled stains if possible. Dip a sponge in cold water and wipe away the stain. If
stain is not removed, dip sponge in a detergent solution. Move sponge from side or edge
to center of the stain.
• Rinse with clean water and dry with clean absorbent tissue or towel.
• Keep area away from children and people to avoid stepping on it. Allow to dry completely.
Care, Cleaning, and Maintenance of Furniture and Fixtures

A. Daily Care and Maintenance
1. Wipe and dust away all dirt both inside out, and under the furniture. Use a clean, dry
dusting cloth.
2. Apply cleaner solution to all the corners and walls to remove sticking dirt and soil.
3. For a better and shiny finish, apply furniture polish especially with wood furniture.
Without regular care, wood furniture can begin to lose its natural luster and beauty.
4. Spray the furniture with polish, if using a sprayer. Spray about 6 inches away from the
furniture. Then using a clean cotton cloth wipe away dust, dirt, smudges to leave a long
lasting shine.
5. Use furniture polish regularly, once or twice a week. While furniture polish leaves a long
lasting shine, it also becomes resistant to smears and fingerprints and protects the
furniture from ordinary wear and tear, spills and stains.
6. There are now furniture polish that contains cleansing conditioners, anti-dust formula
and allergen trappers. Use this in furniture made of vinyl and leather other than wood,
cabinets, panelings, and countertop.
B. Steps in Dusting Furniture and Fixtures

Supplies needed:
• Clean rags
• Dusting cloth
• Furniture wood polish
• Sprayer
Steps:
1. Start dusting all fixtures beginning with the main door (front, back of door, jambs, hinges, and
door knobs). Use rags and sprayer of wood polish.
2. Continue dusting and proceed to wood panels. Dust shelves, cabinets, walls, TV set and stand,
desk, living room and dining room furniture set.
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3. When dusting carefully remove all items on top bric-a-braces. Dust the surface thoroughly then
wipe the items one by one before returning.
4. Check your dust cloth if it still cleans. Change when already full of dirt and soil.
5. Dust windows, window sills, walls, lamps, decors, wall frames, mirrors and other fixtures found
in the rooms.
To use dust cloth properly, fold dust cloth into two or fourfolds depending on its size.
Then holding the dust cloth securely with your palm, gently wipe away the dust in the furniture
or fixture you are cleaning. You should be able to gather the dust in your dusting cloth. Then
change to a clean fold of your dust cloth and wipe another surface. Continue changing folds
until all the clean parts of your dust cloth has been used, in which case you use another dust
cloth.
C. Removing Spots and Stains in Furniture and Fixtures

1. To remove spots and stains in polished wood furniture, use furniture polish with spot and
stain remover. Apply polish by spraying on stained spot. Then allow to stay a little longer,
wipe gently. Repeat the procedure if there are still marks of stain and spots.
2. For spots and stains on vinyl, leather and upholstery of furniture use furniture polish
or use a detergent solution for stubborn dirt. Wipe with sponge or very fine scouring
pad. Wipe with clean wet cloth, then wipe with clean dry cloth. Repeat the procedure if
necessary.
Cleaning Toilet, Bathroom, Living Room, Dining Room, and Kitchen
The living room is the area that receives and

entertains guests.
The dining room is the area where meals both

formal and informal are served.
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The kitchen is the area where foods are prepared, cooked,
and stored.
The toilet and bath is one of the busiest room in the house.
This is the place where everyone does his/her personal
hygiene.
Cleanliness and orderliness should be maintained in these rooms to create a good impression
on the kind of people living in this place. Keeping the kitchen clean and its equipment sanitize is a
must because this is where all meals are prepared. The bathroom is the place where everyone takes
a bath and the toilet is the place where you can do your daily “nature’s call”. So, the place must be
cleaned and sanitized daily in order to be germ-free.
Cleaning Supplies, Materials

Tools and Equipment Uses and Care
1. Scouring Pads Green pads are used for cleaning tiles, formica, unpainted
surfaces, countertops, walls. White pads are for cleaning
painted surfaces, glass, mirrors, marbles, porcelain. Wet pads
must be washed, rinsed after used.
2. Dusting Cloths For dusting wooden and painted parts. Dusting cloths must
be clean and dry before using.
3. Cleaning Towel Used for drying bathroom walls and floor tiles after they are
cleaned. Keep cleaning towels clean and dry before and after
use.
4. Polishing Clothes For polishing metal surfaces like bathroom fixtures. Use highly
absorbent cloths for easy polishing.
5. Hand Brushes For brushing away dusts from rough surfaces such as rattan,
wicker work and for cleaning tiles.
6. Toilet Bowl Brush For cleaning toilet bowls. Clean and hang after use.
7. Mop with Mop Handle For normal floor mopping. Have two buckets: one bucket is
for clean water; another bucket is for squeezing dirty water
absorbed by the mop while cleaning.
8. Floor and Window Squeegees Used to remove excess water from the surface and corners
after cleaning with detergent solution and rinsing with clean
water.
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9. Ceiling Brooms For removing cobwebs in the ceiling.
10. Trash Bags Used to line garbage containers so that the wet garbage does
not penetrate into the corners or surfaces of the garbage
containers.
11. Soft Broom and Stick Broom For sweeping. Use soft broom for all types of smooth floors.
Use stick brooms for rough surfaces.
12. Sponges For cleaning fine surfaces. Dip sponge in cleaning solution.
Wipe on surfaces. Squeeze sponge then dip in clean water.
Wipe surface until water is removed. Rinse sponge after use.
13. Buckets Used with mops for cleaning floors, walls and other parts of the
house. Empty and clean bucket after use.
14. Insect Sprayer Used for fumigation to eliminate pests and mosquitoes. Spray
with doors and windows closed. After 15 minutes open doors
and windows to remove smell. Use mask to avoid inhalation of
chemical.
Cleansing Chemicals
1. Wood Polish To polish wood surfaces, leather and imitation leather surfaces.
Use only when needed.
2. Insecticides To eliminate insects/pests. Keep away from food as it is toxic.
3. Methylated Spirit For polishing all glass surfaces such as mirrors, windows, etc.
Highly flammable, do not use near flame. Use in small areas
one at a time only.
4. Air Freshener Used to remove foul odor in guestrooms, comfort rooms or
any areas with foul odor.
5. Cleanser Used to clean all types of washable surfaces. Contains chlorine
bleach that kill germs, scours heavily soiled areas. Keep out of
reach of children, keep tightly closed.
6. Carpet Stain Remover For stain or spot removal on carpets.
7. Disinfectant like Lysol Used to disinfect toilet bowls, urinals, sink and other areas
together with Sprayer that are most vulnerable to bacterial
contamination.
Dilution is 1 cup Lysol to 1 gallon of water. Use pure Lysol for
urinals/toilet bowl. Brush after pouring Lysol then rinse. Keep
in a safe place out of children’s reach.
8. Metal Polish For polishing brush copper and metal surfaces. Apply polish on
clean cloth then wipe cloth on metal till tarnish disappears and
becomes shiny.
9. Lacquer or Paint thinner Used to remove lacquer or paint from hard surfaces. Apply on
surface using a cloth or towel or scouring pad. Dry and polish
surface.
10. Muriatic Acid Used only for removing cement or plastic remains from floors.
Dilution depends on thickness of cement. Rinse thoroughly
after use. Use hand gloves when using it.
11. Wax Stripper Formulated to break up, loosen and strip off tough old waxes.
Keep in a safe place.
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12. Degreaser Used to remove grease, oil, dirt carbon, ink, mildews, soils, and
waxes. Keep in a safe place.
13. Emulsion Wax A buffable wax use for resilient floors like vinyl, linoleum, and
rubber tile and for concrete floors and marbles. Keep with
other supplies out of children’s reach.
14. Drain Cleaners To expedite draining of clogs. Keep in a safe place.
15. Furniture Polish Contains cleansing conditioners that removes dust, smudges,
and dirt giving furniture a long lasting shine.
16. Marble Cleaners Make marbles shine and resists spots and stains.
17. Oxalic Acid A bleach used in cleaning fabrics and in cleaning marbles.
Cleaning Equipment
1. Vacuum Cleaner Used to eliminate loose soil and dust particles from carpet
surfaces, upholstered furniture and even hard surfaces. Dust
bags must be emptied daily. After using, roll back the wire
neatly in the back of the vacuum cleaner. Placed it on one end
of the trolley.
2. Floor Polisher To be used in scrubbing, stripping and polishing hard floor

surfaces and also vinyl, wood parquet, etc. Use the appropriate
pad for scrubbing, stripping and polishing.
Give the wax on the floor enough time to dry before polishing.
3. Carpet Sweeper Used to pick-up dirt and particles from the carpet. Press the
handle and push toward the dirt to vacuum-sweep the carpet.
4. Hydro-vacuum or Wet It is an all-purpose vacuum for dry and wet surface. It is used
and Dry Vacuum also for absorbing water in flooded or wet surface.
5. Carpet Extractor It is designed for dry foam shampooing of carpets. It removes

dirt that sticks to or penetrates into the carpet layers. Simply
twist handgrips and move machine gently from one corner to
the other.
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Different Cleaning and Sanitizing Chemicals:
Uses and Proper Dilution:
1. All-purpose cleaner – this is used to clean all types of washable surfaces. Ratio of solute (all-
purpose cleaner) to solvent (water) depends on the type of material being cleaned.
a) For glass panels and mirror
1:100; that is, 1 part cleaner to 100 parts water
To use: Spray or wipe then rinse and dry with clean cloth.
b) For steel, rubber, fiber glass, formica
1:75 – 1 part cleaner to 75 parts water
To use: Spray or wipe then rinse, dry with clean cloth.
c) For painted walls, surfaces, floors and ceilings
1:50 – 1 part cleaner to 50 parts water
To use: Spray or wipe, mop, rinse and dry with clean cloth or mop.
d) Keep in a safe place out of children’s reach.
2. Wax Stripper or Remover (to loosen, break-up and strip off old waxes, finish and sealers)
a) For stripping off polymer sealer/finish or heavy wax build up.
1:4 – 1 part wax stripper to 4 parts water
b) For unusual stripping of wax build-up on floor corners and edges.
1:0 – pure concentrated wax stripper.
c) Keep in a safe place.
3. Disinfectant – this is used to disinfect toilet bowls and urinals.
a) Disinfect and sanitize toilet bowl seat all over one cup disinfectant to 1 gallon water.
b) Disinfect inside of toilet bowl and urinals with pure disinfectant. Do this for both as these
areas already contain water.
c) Keep in a safe place out of children’s reach.
4. Other way of sanitizing kitchen appliance.
a) For a deep fat fryer – sanitize by putting vinegar – water solution with a ratio of 1:30. Boil,
drain then rinse. Let dry.
b) Sanitize dishes, glassware, and flatware with hot water (110°F-140°F).
c) Sal Soda to de-clogged sink with ratio of 4 oz to 2 gallons of water. Use detergent to
sanitize sides of sink, drain boards, and working tables.
Wastes disposal – all garbage should be taken out every day. Garbage containers should
have tight fitting covers to prevent insects and rodents from entering the garbage. Likewise
garbage containers should be lined with a plastic trash bag to facilitate disposal of garbage and to
minimize constant cleaning of the garbage container. To reduce waste – segregate into compost
(biodegradable) and recycle (non-biodegradable).
Making Up Beds and Cots

There are many different ways of making a bed. Regardless of these differences, however, there
are common rules that apply to all:
289
1. Stripping the bed – this refers to removing all soiled
sheets in the bed. Two people can work together to strip
a bed faster and easier. It includes the following steps:
a) Fold each layer of bed linen neatly into three before
removing it from the bed.
b) Place the folded linen on the chairs.
Bed linen can be folded into three according to the
preference of the one making the bed.
2. Mitering the corners – this refers to the folding of the
corners of the bedsheet at the junctions of the bed to
give a neat and finished look at the same time keeping
the bed sheet tight and secured even when the person lying on the bed moves about.
To miter the corners, follow these steps:
a) Pick up the edge of the hanging part of the sheet about 18 inches from the corner
of the bed.
b) Tuck in the sheet hanging down between your hand and the corner.
c) Allow the remaining fold of sheet to hang down, and then tuck it in with hands.
3. Loosening the bedsheets at the foot of the bed to allow the person lying down on the
bed to move his feet freely.
Vacuuming a Mattress
1. To vacuum the mattress, you should first place it in an open area for easy cleaning since you
need to move around. If it is not possible you can do it inside the bedroom. Remove all furniture
near the bed and clear the surrounding area.
2. Check your vacuum cleaner if it is in good working condition. Inspect electric wires, plug and
the filter. Clean filter if necessary.
3. Choose a wide nozzle for vacuuming a wide area and a narrow nozzle for corners of the edge of
the mattress.
4. Using the wide nozzle, place the vacuum on top of the mattress. Turn the vacuum cleaner,
move the nozzle in a forward and backward motion. See to it that every space is covered by the
nozzle.
5. After vacuuming the wide surface of the mattress, switch to a narrower nozzle to suck the dirt
from the corners and edges of the mattress.
6. Tap the mattress with your hand or a wide stick to loosen the dust underneath the surface of
the mattress.
290
7. Repeat Steps 4 and 5.
8. Clean the filter of the vacuum cleaner before safekeeping.
General Procedures in Making the Bed

1. Pull bed away from the headboard.
2. Position yourself at the head portion.
3. Place the bed pad at the head side. Straighten and smoothen.
4. Place first sheet on bed and allow to extend over on the end of head touching the floor. Tuck in.
Miter corners.
5. Place second sheet on top of the first sheet allowing it to extend over the top of bed (wrong
side up).
6. Place blanket on top of the second sheet with top approximately 1 foot from headboard.
7. Dress pillows.
8. Place bedspread on bed.
9. Smoothen out bedspread from center downward.
10. Return bed to correct position.
Remember when making a bed, and the bed has just been previously used, the first thing to
do is to remove all soiled linens and pillow cases in the bed, then proceed to the usual procedure in
making up a bed.
Replacing Linens and Pillowcases

1. All soiled bed sheets have been efficiently stripped off the bed and folded properly in the linen
basket.
2. Newly replenished linens are spotlessly clean, smell fresh, and free of wrinkles.
3. Linens are properly placed on beds, clean, smoothen, and no creases and wrinkles.
4. No visible dirt, spots or stains.
5. Bed sheets are properly tucked in under the mattress.
6. Mitered corners of bed appear neat, well-folded, and smooth.
7. Bed spread or cover hangs equally on all sides and front of bed.
8. Bed skirts uniformly and neatly placed around the bed.
9. Runner spreads out neatly across the bed.
Remember These
1. Cleaning rooms depend greatly on the skills of the cleaner and on the availability of the cleaning
materials, supplies and equipment and how they are properly used.
2. The living and dining rooms, toilet and bathroom should be immaculately clean. They should
be free from pathogenic organisms or germs to protect the occupants from diseases.
291
3. Different types of floors require daily maintenance to avoid accumulation of dirt and keep the
floors clean, neat, and shiny.
4. There are many different ways of making a bed. Regardless of these differences, there are
common rules that apply to all.
5. To vacuum the mattress, you should first place it in an open area for easy cleaning since you
need to move around.
A. Match column A with column B. Write the letter of the correct answer in the blank before each
number.
A B
_____ 1. The busiest room in the house where everyone a. Trash bags
does his personal hygiene
_____ 2. Area where food are prepared b. Insect sprayer
_____ 3. Area where guest are entertained c. Sponge
_____ 4. Cleaning tool to remove cobweb in the ceiling d. Scouring pad
_____ 5. Used to line garbage containers e. Living room
_____ 6. Used for cleaning fine surfaces f. Cleanser
_____ 7. Green and white pads used to clean tiles, g. Metal polish
glass and mirrors
_____ 8. Used for fumigation to eliminate pests h. Kitchen
_____ 9. Used to removed foul odors i. Carpet sweeper
_____ 10. Used to clean all types of washable surfaces j. Toilet
and bathroom
_____ 11. Used to polish copper and metal surfaces k. Vacuum cleaner
_____ 12. Used to eliminate insects/pests l. Ceiling broom
_____ 13. Used to remove grease m. Degreaser
_____ 14. Equipment used to pick-up dirt and particles n. Air freshener
from the carpet
_____ 15. Equipment used to eliminate loose soil and o. Insecticides
dust particles from carpet surface
B. Explain
1. Why is it important to maintain cleanliness in the living and dining rooms, toilet, and
bathroom?
2. What are the common rules in making up beds?
292
Research To Do
Form 5 groups of three students to do the following:
1st group – How to clean vinyl floors
2nd group – How to do the 3-bucket cleaning system
3rd group – How to do the initial care for wood and parquet floors
4th group – How to do the initial care for carpeted floors
5th group – How to deal with carpet stains and spill
293

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Lesson 3

Maintaining a Healthy and Safe Environment

Read and Learn

Assessing the Situation

Common Physical Hazards Characteristics of Old Age

Making the Patient Calm and Comfortable

Applying Basic First Aid Technique

4. Check for severe bleeding (hemorrhage) by looking over entire body

First Aid Management

External and Internal Bleeding

What to Do When Bleeding Occurs:

5) If bleeding still continues, apply pressure at a pressure point to slow

6) After the bleeding stops or if you need to be free to attend to other

Use a blanket or coat to

What not to do when there is bleeding:

Signs of Internal Bleeding – these may take days to appear:

What to do for Severe Internal Bleeding

What to do when a stroke happens:

What to do for Heat Stroke

Communicating Details of the Incident

Advantages in Calling the Emergency Medical Service

Give the following information to the Emergency Medical Service:

Check Your Understanding

Read and Learn

Implementing Procedures for Infection Control and Prevention

Procedures in Controlling Wound Infection

Diseases and Cause of Death

Characteristics of all Communicable Disease:

Precautionary Measures to Prevent the Spread of Infection:

A. Gastro-Intestinal Diseases (mainly Diarrhea in Nature)

C. Cardiovascular and Blood Diseases

Two Forms of Dengue:

Practice Hygiene and Health Principles

Seven Rights to Remember Directions in Giving Medicine

Preparations in Giving Medicines

Caution must be observed, such as the following:

Administering Medicine through the Rectum

Responding to Threats and Situations of Danger

Applying emergency procedure to ensure safety of children and worker

Check Your Understanding

Read and Learn

Cleaning Surfaces, Floors, Furnishings, and Fixtures

Furniture and Fixtures:

Cleaning of Different Types of Floors

The Three-Bucket Cleaning System

Dealing with Carpet Stains and Spills

Care, Cleaning, and Maintenance of Furniture and Fixtures

B. Steps in Dusting Furniture and Fixtures

C. Removing Spots and Stains in Furniture and Fixtures

Cleaning Toilet, Bathroom, Living Room, Dining Room, and Kitchen

The living room is the area that receives and

The dining room is the area where meals both

Cleaning Supplies, Materials

2. Floor Polisher To be used in scrubbing, stripping and polishing hard floor

5. Carpet Extractor It is designed for dry foam shampooing of carpets. It removes

Making Up Beds and Cots

General Procedures in Making the Bed

Replacing Linens and Pillowcases

Check Your Understanding

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