The effects of increasing heat waves on outpatient caregivers - Attitudes, measures and outlook
Frantzen C, Kaifie A (2025)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2025
Journal
DOI: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000003362
Abstract
Objectives Increasing heatwaves pose a significant health risk. This study investigates the impact of heatwaves on staff in outpatient care services in a large city in western Germany. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted from March to June 2023, which targeted the managers of 78 outpatient nursing services. The 33-item questionnaire addressed attitudes toward climate change, health impacts on patients and staff, and potential measures to improve working conditions during heatwaves. Results Of the 40 services that participated, 90% had not received training on climate adaptation; 38% felt uninformed about heat-related measures; and 50% requested more time for caregiving duties during heatwaves. Guidelines for heatwaves were supported by 78% of participants, and 75% wanted more heat-protection training. Conclusion Outpatient care services require more active involvement in heat-protection planning to safeguard staff as heatwaves become more frequent.
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Germany (DE)How to cite
APA:
Frantzen, C., & Kaifie, A. (2025). The effects of increasing heat waves on outpatient caregivers - Attitudes, measures and outlook. Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1097/JOM.0000000000003362
MLA:
Frantzen, Chiara, and Andrea Kaifie. "The effects of increasing heat waves on outpatient caregivers - Attitudes, measures and outlook." Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (2025).
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