COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions
With a Little Help will be keeping this page up to date throughout the COVID-19 crisis. You are also always welcome to reach out to us directly with questions, at our main office number (206) 352-2399 and via email to care@withalittlehelp.com
What personal protective equipment (PPE) is With a Little Help able to provide?
With a Little Help is currently able to provide gloves, cloth masks and limited amounts of surgical masks. We are working on a larger bulk order of N95 masks, and we hope to have additional hand sanitizer available soon.
Please reach out to the office to arrange pick up of available PPE.
How can I make sure that I am keeping my client safe?
The best way to keep your client safe is to keep yourself safe and healthy. We encourage you to take extra time right now to stay safe. Stay at home unless you have essential needs to take care of and take extra sanitary precautions like hand washing, sanitizing surfaces, avoiding touching your face and continuing to practice social distancing.
With a Little Help has an enhanced set of safety protocols for caregivers to follow with clients:
- Complete a self-assessment every day for symptoms, and reach out to the daytime or on-call care coordinator if you do have any symptoms of illness (not just symptoms related to COVID-19)
- Wear gloves for all hands-on assistance with clients: personal care, hands-on assistance with transfers, etc.
- For companion care: maintain six feet of distance when possible
- Wash your hands frequently, and avoid touching your face
- If you have a mask available: you are welcome to wear it during the shift for your comfort and the comfort of the client
Please reach out to the care coordinators if you have any questions about how to communicate these best practices to your clients.
What is the proper protocol if I have symptoms or suspect that I may have been exposed to COVID-19?
If you have any reason to suspect that you have been exposed to COVID-19, or are exhibiting any symptoms of illness, please reach out to our care coordinators. They will be able to discuss a plan of action with you.
You can get additional information and help through the WA Department of Health hotline (6am – 10pm: 1-800-525-0127) and the Washington State COVID-10 website: https://www.coronavirus.wa.gov/
What are some resources for mental health in this difficult time?
This is a stressful time, particularly for those providing front-line care. The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented crisis, with a lot of uncertainty involved. It is normal to feel a variety of responses, ranging from anxiety and fear to apathy/sluggishness or a sense of disconnectedness.
You play a crucial role in helping others during this time: your health is also very important, and mental health is a key part of overall health.
The following are some support resources for healthcare providers during the COVID-19 crisis:
American Medical Association: Managing Mental Health During COVID-19
WA Department of Health: Processing Grief
Mental Health America: Mental Health And COVID-19 – Information and Resources
Please let us know if you are experiencing extra difficulties in this time. We are here for support.
From the bottom of our hearts: thank you for all that you do.