Climate V&E
What does climate equity mean
Making sure everyone has fair opportunities to have a safe and healthy living and a sustainable environment, even with climate change
What group is the most vulnerable northern community
First Nations
What is the main body system affected by wildfire smoke
Respiratory system
Name one group of people who may be especially vulnerable to wildfire smoke.
Older adults, children, or people with asthma, other respiratory conditions, or cardiovascular disease.
True or false: Climate change affects every person and community in exactly the same way. Why or why not?
False. Some populations experience greater risks and impacts than others.
Name one barrier to healthcare access that remote communities may experience.
Long distances, limited local healthcare services, transportation, or difficulty reaching hospitals.
What happens to air quality when wildfire smoke is present
It gets worse because smoke adds harmful particles and pollutants
Name one action a nurse can recommend to help reduce exposure to wildfire smoke.
Stay indoors with windows and doors closed when safe; use a good air cleaner or filtration system if available.
What are two things that can make a community more vulnerable to climate change?
Older age, chronic illness, low income, geographic isolation, and limited access to healthcare or other resources.
According to the Northern Ontario Climate Change and Health Collaborative (2022), by what percentage could wildfire incidents increase by 2030?
Approximately 25%
Name two chronic health conditions that can worsen with exposure to wildfire smoke.
Asthma and heart conditions
A nurse is supporting a resident who has diabetes during extreme heat. Name one health concern the nurse should consider.
Dehydration, heat-related illness, or how illness and heat may affect blood glucose management and medication needs.
What is the difference between experiencing a climate hazard and being vulnerable to it?
A hazard is an event or threat (wildfire smoke). Vulnerability is how susceptible people are to its effects and how able they are to cope or recover.
Outside of healthcare access, what are two challenges that increase climate vulnerability in northern and remote communities?
High food costs, infrastructure challenges, and geographic isolation.
Why can extreme heat be especially concerning for someone with cardiovascular disease?
Heat places additional strain on the body as it works to regulate temperature, which can increase stress on the heart.
A resident needs to reach a healthcare appointment during a wildfire but has no transportation. What could a nurse do to address that?
Help coordinate safe transportation, contact community support services, or explore appropriate virtual care if available.
Why might giving every community the same resources during a climate disaster not result in equitable outcomes?
Communities have different needs and resources. Some may need additional support, such as transportation, healthcare access, or clean indoor air.
Why is there typically a lot of discrimination within northern communities.
They consist of small minority groups, they are shamed for their living conditions and lack of resources, and they are too ashamed to ask for help.
An older adult with asthma develops worsening shortness of breath during a walk while there is a wildfire smoke warning. What may be happening and what should the interventions be
Smoke may be worsening the asthma and filling the lungs. There should be an immediate assessment and potential treatment like O2.
What is the term for preventing illness before it occurs?
Health promotion or primary prevention.