Heat-Related Dangers in Illinois Nursing Homes

 Posted on April 24, 2023 in Nursing Home Abuse

Chicago is called the Windy City, but it is also known for having surprisingly warm summer weather. As summer approaches, nursing homes must be vigilant for signs of heat-related illnesses and other summertime dangers. Elderly people are more sensitive to higher temperatures and can suffer heat related-illness much more easily than a younger person would.

Many nursing home residents also have medical conditions or take medications that can make it harder for their bodies to cope with higher temperatures. It is imperative that nursing home staff be aware of the dangers associated with rising temperatures, the signs of heat-related conditions such as heat stroke, and take precautions to prevent wandering and elopement.

Heat-Related Health Concerns for Sick and Elderly Nursing Home Residents

The National Institutes of Health explains that certain factors make it more likely for an older person to suffer a heat-related illness. Many elderly people suffer from high blood pressure, poor circulation, and general weakness. Many take medications such as diuretics that can increase the chances of dehydration and heat exhaustion. For these reasons, a summertime temperature that may be merely uncomfortable for a healthy person could be extremely dangerous for an elderly or sick person.

Heat Exhaustion, Heat Stroke, and Dehydration

Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses too much water and electrolytes. People with blood pressure problems, elderly people, and those who work strenuous outside jobs are most at risk for heat exhaustion. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, clammy skin, muscle cramps, sweating, and shallow breathing. In many cases, heat exhaustion can lead to syncope or fainting.

Heat stroke occurs when the body cannot maintain an appropriate internal temperature. This life-threatening condition requires immediate emergency medical treatment. Symptoms of heat stroke include severe headache, extremely high body temperature, confusion and dizziness, hallucinations, chills, and profuse sweating.

Dehydration is another key concern during the summer. Many nursing home residents have difficulty swallowing or may suffer from cognitive decline, which causes them to forget to drink water. Dark yellow urine, dizziness, confusion, and dry skin are common symptoms of dehydration.

Wandering and Elopement Dangers

The risk of a heat-related illness can be mitigated by keeping a nursing home at a reasonably cool temperature during the summer. However, if a nursing home patient wanders outside of the facility, heat-related illness can set in quickly.

Nursing homes should keep a close eye on residents - especially those who tend to wander or who get confused easily. Devices such as door alarms, ankle or wrist bracelets that track a resident’s movement, and security cameras can be used to prevent elopement. Staff should also be trained on how to recognize signs that a resident may try to escape the facility and keep these residents safe.

Contact our Chicago Nursing Home Injury Lawyer

If your loved one was injured or killed because a nursing home did not provide an adequate level of care and attention, contact our Cook County nursing home injury lawyers for help. Call 312-535-4625 for a free initial consultation.

Sources:

https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/heat-related-health-dangers-older-adults-soar-during-summer 

https://www.chicago.gov/content/dam/city/depts/cdph/emergency_preparedness/HEATHINFOFACTSHEETHEATSTRESSJuly2011.pdf