It’s summertime, and that means the sun is shining, the birds are singing, and the temperatures are rising. Unfortunately, some nursing homes are not prepared for the heat.
In fact, many residents report that their nursing home is too hot for them to be comfortable. This can be a major issue, especially in the summer months when temperatures soar into the 90s and beyond. As summer temperatures increase, residents in nursing homes, particularly those with vulnerable health, are at a greater risk of overheating, which can lead to serious complications like heat stroke or exacerbated health conditions.
If you or a loved one is living in a nursing home that is too hot, there are steps you can take to make it more comfortable.
What to Do If Your Nursing Home Is Too Hot
First, talk to the staff. They may not be aware of the problem and may be able to adjust the temperature for you.
If that doesn’t work, try asking the staff to open windows or use fans to cool down your room. You can also request to be moved to a cooler area of the nursing home if available.
Finally, if all else fails, you can contact your local ombudsman or file a complaint with the state department of health.
Nursing Facilities Have a Duty to Keep Residents Safe
Nursing homes are required by law to provide a safe and comfortable environment for their residents. If the temperature in the facility becomes excessively high, it can be considered a violation of their duty of care.
If you suspect your nursing home is too hot for residents, start by observing the environment. Check if air conditioning units are functioning properly or if windows are opened regularly. If your nursing home has no air conditioning or is struggling with an outdated HVAC system, this could be a contributing factor to the discomfort.
Nursing homes should also be mindful of local climate conditions. In Kansas City, where summers can bring intense heat, nursing homes must be equipped to handle these extreme temperatures. Facilities are required to adhere to state and federal guidelines that mandate a certain standard of care, including maintaining a temperature that is suitable for the well-being of residents.
Excessive Heat in a Nursing Home: A Health Risk
The elderly are particularly vulnerable to the effects of excessive heat in nursing homes. When the temperature in a facility becomes too high, it can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke, all of which are particularly dangerous for elderly residents who may have chronic conditions or mobility issues.
In some cases, a nursing home with no air conditioning or inadequate cooling systems could be considered negligent. Nursing homes have a duty to provide an environment where residents’ health is protected. If they fail to address excessive heat in the nursing home, they may be legally liable for any injuries or health complications that occur as a result.
Some common symptoms associated with an overheating-related injury include:
- Heat rash,
- Heat cramps,
- Heat exhaustion, and
- Heat stroke.
If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 700 people die annually in the United States due to excessive heat exposure, with vulnerable populations such as the elderly being at higher risk.
Legal Options If Your Nursing Facility Is Too Hot
If you suspect that your loved one’s nursing home is too hot and is jeopardizing their safety, you have legal options. Nursing homes have a legal obligation to provide a comfortable, safe living environment. If a nursing home’s failure to maintain a safe temperature results in harm, the facility could be held accountable through a negligence claim.
In Kansas and Missouri, the law requires nursing homes to meet specific environmental safety standards, including proper temperature regulation. The Nursing Home Reform Act, part of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987 (OBRA), mandates that facilities provide a safe environment, including comfortable living conditions. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) sets forth guidelines that nursing homes must follow to meet this standard, ensuring the protection of residents from heat-related injuries.
Steps to Take If Your Nursing Home Has No Air Conditioning or Is Too Hot
Excessive heat in nursing homes can be a serious issue that requires immediate action. If you believe your loved one’s health or well-being is at risk, it’s important to address the situation and protect their rights by taking the following steps:
- Document the situation. Keep detailed records of the temperature in your loved one’s room, especially during hot weather. If possible, take photos of broken or insufficient air conditioning units and document any complaints made to staff.
- Notify the staff. Report the issue to the nursing home staff immediately. Ask them to address the temperature concerns by either repairing or replacing the air conditioning unit or providing alternative cooling methods like fans or portable air conditioning units.
- File a complaint. If the staff is unresponsive or does not resolve the situation, you can file a complaint with the state health department or the local ombudsman.
- Consider legal action. If the nursing home’s failure to maintain a safe environment leads to harm or injury, you may have grounds for legal action. Consult with a skilled nursing home abuse attorney to discuss your options and how you can pursue a claim for negligence.
No one deserves to suffer in the heat, especially not our elderly population. If you or someone you know is living in an uncomfortably hot nursing home, don’t hesitate to take action.
Our Skilled Kansas City Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers are Here to Help
Suffering an injury in a nursing home as a result of the facility’s negligence is unacceptable. If you or your loved one has endured harm in a nursing home as a result of another’s wrongdoing, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our skilled team right away to learn more about what we can do to help you.
Call Dempsey Kingsland Osteen today at (816) 484-3776 for a free consultation regarding your case.
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