Retirement and nursing homes
pharmacist from the supplier pharmacy contacts the home in individual cases
and warns of any possible medication interactions.
In the opinion of the NPM improved alignment between caregivers, general
practitioners and doctors could be achieved by means of joint care visits and
case reviews based on the GEMED project. This type of approach is already
being applied in some nursing homes, for example in Viennese homes that
discuss medication-related decisions and changes in the condition of residents
in monthly interdisciplinary meetings.
Optimisation of
interfaces
XX
It is recommended that the Federal Minister of Social Affairs, Health, Care and
Consumer Protection contribute to creating a framework that facilitates, at least in
phases, the implementation of the GEMED project.
XX
Education in all health professions should ensure that elderly persons are not subjected
to undesired adverse medical events. Orientation on the GEMED project should also be
examined in this respect.
2.1.6
Heat protection measures for those in need of care and
the staff
The number and duration of heat waves in Austria is increasing due to global
warming. Commissions were confronted with high room temperatures in
several homes in Burgenland and retirement and nursing homes in Tyrol,
Lower Austria and Vienna during the summer. The lack of or insufficient
heat protection measures were reported in meetings. Continuously high
temperatures have not only negative effects on the quality of life, but also
represent a health hazard and a lethal risk for residents who are elderly and
suffering from multimorbidity. A heat-related unhealthy room temperature
affects staff negatively too. Superiors and home operators are also obliged to
take measures to minimise job-related health hazards in the interest of their
staff.
Frequency and duration
of heat waves is
increasing
The structure of care facilities determines how well they are prepared for heat
waves. In terms of energy, passive cooling systems (heat storage and shade)
are preferable to ensure a pleasant microclimate, for example through better
ventilation or green oases. Where this is not structurally possible, there should
at least be individual air-conditioned areas or the existing air conditioning
system serviced, inspected and optimised. Residents have no contractual right
to air conditioning. There are also no reference values for the temperature and
humidity. Nevertheless, the staff in the respective home must ensure that the
heat cannot become a health hazard. This is already anchored in the general
duty of care designed to safeguard the dignity of the residents.
Duty of care of
retirement and nursing
homes
38
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