Fever, cold, or flu symptoms — reporting and precautions

A new fever, cough, or flu-like illness in your client is a reportable change — tell your supervisor or the nurse today, use infection precautions, and encourage fluids and rest. Call 911 for trouble breathing, blue lips, or new confusion with fever.

1. 1Report a new fever the same day — in older adults even a low fever (or feeling cold with a below-normal temperature) can signal serious infection.
2. 2Watch for and report: cough, sore throat, body aches, vomiting/diarrhea, less urination, unusual sleepiness or confusion.
3. 3911 signs: difficulty breathing, chest pain, bluish lips or face, unresponsive or hard to wake, fever with stiff neck.
4. 4Precautions: wash hands often, wear a mask per agency guidance, clean high-touch surfaces, keep your distance when possible.
5. 5Encourage fluids and rest; give fever medicine only under medication-assistance rules (client self-directs).
6. 6If YOU are sick: call your agency before the shift — going in sick can be dangerous for a frail client. Ask about your agency's coverage procedure.

Older adults often don't show a high fever even when seriously ill — a change in behavior, appetite, or alertness may be the only sign. When your gut says 'something is off', report it.