Hot Weather Policy
Who is responsible for recording daily temperatures in the building?
Environmental Service Manager or Registered Staff
True or False: Heat stress may occur under those conditions, which include high temperatures and humidity, exposure to direct sun or heat, limited air movement, physical exertion, and existence of poor physical conditions, certain medications and inadequate ability to adjust to hot weather environments.
True
True or False: PSW staff should open all windows to helps cool the building during heat waves
FALSE, windows, shades and drapes or blinds are to be closed when heat alerts are in place.
What is the most serious heat-related illness?
Heat Stroke- It occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature: the body’s temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down.
By what date do air conditioners need to be installed in every resident bedroom and designated cooling area for those homes without a central air-conditioning?
May 15th
What are 2 treatments to provide a resident or staff with Heat Rash?
Place in cool area, keep affected area dry, ensure clothing is light weight
Name 1 Dietary intervention that can be implement to help reduce hot weather related illnesses in our residents?
Alternate menu plans to replace hot entrees and soups for cold food options, increase frequency, type and amount of fluids
Name 2 signs of someone with Heat Rash
1) Red spots on affected skin areas such as neck, upper chest, groin, under the breasts, elbow creases.
2) Itching
3) Sore and Prickly sensation is felt when further exposure to the sun.
Based on the Hot weather Prevention Policy, what months is it required to record daily temperatures?
May through September
Dizziness, Muscle cramps, Nausea, Headache, Vomiting, sweating, paleness, weakness
Name 2 responsibilities of the registered staff to help reduce heat related illnesses in our residents
Monitor residents for heat related illnesses, document symptoms residents are experiencing, keep residents in designated cooling areas, encourage use of light weight clothing, additional fluids, discourage outdoor activities.
Name 3 signs of Heat Stroke
1) An extremely high body temperature (above 39.4°C)
2) Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating)
3) Rapid, strong pulse
4) Throbbing headache
5) Dizziness
6) Nausea
7) Confusion
8) Unconsciousness