What are essential supplies to have for residents with respiratory symptoms?

Having tissues and face masks is essential for residents with respiratory symptoms because these items play a critical role in infection control and respiratory hygiene. Tissues are necessary for residents to manage secretions, reduce the spread of germs, and maintain personal hygiene. Proper disposal of used tissues helps to keep the environment clean and minimizes the risk of transmitting respiratory infections to others in the facility.

Face masks serve an important protective function. They can help contain respiratory droplets that may be expelled when a person coughs or sneezes, thereby reducing the potential spread of infectious agents. Wearing a face mask also serves as a precaution for the resident, minimizing their risk of inhaling airborne pathogens.

While extra towels, blankets, medications, and soothing beverages can contribute to comfort and care in various ways, they do not directly address the immediate needs related to respiratory hygiene and infection prevention as effectively as tissues and face masks do.