Heatwaves Leave Hospital Wards Unsafe

Heatwave Crisis in English Hospitals

Hospitals in England have been experiencing extremely high temperatures, with some recording temperatures of almost 42C this summer. This has led to surgeries being cancelled and patients cancelling their own surgery due to the heat.

Temperature Records

Figures disclosed by 33 NHS trusts show that temperatures on wards during July rose above the 28C limit set by NHS England. The Northern Care Alliance NHS foundation trust, which runs four hospitals in Greater Manchester, recorded a temperature of 41.8C during last month’s heatwave – 14C above the recommended safe maximum.

Some of the key issues faced by hospitals include:

• Ambulance services struggling to keep medications at the right temperature due to the heat in their vehicles.
• Hospitals and GP surgeries offering frail elderly patients appointments at the start and end of the day to make it easier for them to attend.
• NHS ambulance trusts relaxing their usual dress code rules to help crews stay cooler.

Impact on Patients

The heatwave has had a significant impact on patients, with some cancelling their own surgery due to the heat. Hospitals are also taking steps to make it easier for patients to attend appointments, such as offering appointments at cooler times of the day.

According to the NHS website, patients can take steps to stay safe during the heatwave, such as staying hydrated and staying out of the sun.

Preparations for Future Heatwaves

The heatwave has highlighted the need for hospitals to be better prepared for extreme temperatures. This includes investing in cooling systems and taking steps to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.

For more information on how to stay safe during a heatwave, visit the UK Government website.