Retirement and nursing homes nursing homes in Lower Austria if evaluated as being successful. A second project running until September 2022 called “GREEN: Cool & Care” addresses greening as a way of optimising the microclimate. XX  The elderly and chronically ill need special attention during periods of hot weather; in particular, in rooms with little or no air conditioning. XX  In new buildings, structural aspects for the prevention of heat-related health impairments should be taken into consideration. XX  The prevention of heat-related illnesses and measures that restrict freedom in vulnerable persons as well as the care of heat-related health impairments require additional effort that should be included in staff planning. XX  The guideline developed by the municipal department MA 15 in Vienna for medical and care facilities includes instructions for heat prevention action plans and should attract attention beyond the borders of the city. 2.1.7 Long waiting times for official procouncement of death and inspection of the corpse In Austria, all deceased are subjected to an inspection of the corpse. This is to determine the type and cause of death and is, generally speaking, the last and only opportunity to find any evidence of violence. It does not suffice thus to take a fleeting look at the deceased and the medical record and then to complete the death certificate. Laender laws oblige everyone – including care homes – to provide truthful information on the circumstances that help to determine the cause of death. Specially trained medical experts are charged with determining whether an autopsy is necessary in cases where the type or cause of death has not been clarified. At least until the official pronouncement of death in connection with the inspection of the corpse, the suspected deceased should remain in the same position insofar as possible at the place of death and not have their clothes changed. Undertakers require an official document before they can remove the body. It is professionally and emotionally challenging for the caregivers to enable passing with dignity. In 2019 care managers in Lower Austria criticised the exceptionally long waiting times for the official inspection of the corpse. This can result in an intolerable situation during periods of hot weather, in particular. The commissions also reported about long waiting times, particularly in the night or at the weekend. Sure signs of death become evident just one or two hours after the deceased has passed. Waiting for hours for the official pronouncement of death is experienced by the staff and other residents living in shared rooms as irreverent. In addition, there is the question of when the relatives should be informed and how resources can be internally managed 40

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