Publish date: 2 June 2021
During hot weather, and to assist in keeping all of our patients comfortable, staff are requested to please follow the measures listed below;
- Open windows, if appropriate
- Utilise the electric blinds / curtains to block the heat from the sun
- Chilled drinks / fluids should be regularly offered
- Ice pops will be available
- Monitor fluid intake and complete a NEWS assessment, if appropriate
- Offer regular changes of clothing and bed linen
- Ensure cool damp facecloths and towels are available
- Rooms should be cleaned and freshened on regular basis
- In line with patient’s individual Care Plans, access to fresh air, baths / showers, and social contact should be offered
- As advised by Pharmacy, use sun cream to prevent sunburn
- Where possible, use bedrooms and seclusion rooms that are not in direct sunlight
- Identify vulnerable patient’s and ensure appropriate Care Plans are in place
- On HSS wards, the PIP’s team can be contacted in order to request additional periods of social contact or open door assessments to allow ventilation into individual rooms
- Fans can be utilised to keep patients in seclusion / segregation cool
Please note;
- Seclusion hatches / pill windows are significant ligature points, if left open. If they need to be opened to provide additional ventilation, they must be continually observed and necessary risk assessments undertaken
- Fans must not be used if a patient is presenting with suspected Covid-19 criteria, and symptoms should be reported immediately
If you have any queries please email SecureandSpecialistLD