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General health information

Coronavirus in hospital

Hospital admission for COVID-19 is needed when monitoring or treatment at home is not safe enough, for example because of low oxygen, dehydration, severe weakness or destabilisation of another illness. The team treats the virus and lungs and also monitors clots, the heart, kidneys, delirium, nutrition, mobility and recovery.

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  • Admission for COVID-19 is needed when monitoring or treatment at home is not safe enough, for example with low oxygen, dehydration, confusion or a serious additional illness.
  • The team repeatedly assesses breathing, oxygen, circulation, consciousness, fluid balance and organ function.
  • Oxygen and supportive care are often more important than one specific medicine. Medicines are chosen according to illness duration, severity, risks and other drugs.
  • Complications such as clots, additional bacterial infection, kidney problems, strain on the heart, pressure sores and delirium are actively prevented or treated.
  • Family may provide information and support, but privacy, infection prevention and the patient's wishes determine how communication takes place.
  • Discharge means care at home is considered safe; it does not always mean every symptom has gone.

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Intensive care (ICU)Intensive care is for people so seriously ill or injured that important body functions need very close monitoring or temporary support. Breathing, blood pressure, the heart, kidneys or brain can be monitored intensively and supported with equipment or medicines when needed. An ICU admission is often distressing for both patient and family, and recovery can continue long after discharge with physical, cognitive or psychological symptoms.
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Having coronavirusIf you have COVID-19 or symptoms that fit, you can usually recover at home. Protect people around you, drink enough and watch your breathing and any deterioration. Make contact early if you are at high risk of severe illness, because any treatment needs assessment soon after symptoms begin.
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Assessment by a geriatrician in hospitalA hospital doctor for older people looks beyond a single illness. They also assess medicines, memory, mood, movement, nutrition, independence and the home situation. A coordinated treatment plan follows.