Residential centers in Bizkaia cater to one of the most vulnerable groups amidst rising temperatures. This factor necessitates extreme caution and the activation of specific protocols within these facilities during the summer months. To guarantee the safety of residents, the staff in these centers receive specialized training focused not only on implementing preventive strategies but also on recognizing and promptly treating any symptoms arising from excessive heat exposure.
A primary action within the facilities is the rigorous control of ambient temperature. Professionals constantly monitor thermometers in both common areas and residents' rooms, adhering to the technical guideline that remaining in rooms exceeding 26 degrees Celsius is not advisable. To mitigate environmental impact, the use of air-conditioned spaces is promoted, as spending two to three hours daily in such an environment significantly reduces severe consequences associated with heat spikes.
Adapted hydration and nutrition form another fundamental pillar of the internal protection plan. Staff actively ensure that the elderly increase their fluid intake, primarily offering cool water to be consumed in small sips. As an effective alternative for those with difficulties or to ensure optimal hydration, the use of jellies is encouraged. Concurrently, menus are modified to prioritize light dishes such as salads, vegetables, and fresh fruits, which are essential for replenishing mineral salts lost through sweat, while eliminating high-fat meals that hinder the body's adaptation to heat.
The protocol mandates continuous and individualized medical and care surveillance. The center's medical staff are responsible for formally identifying residents at higher risk and thoroughly reviewing their pharmacological treatments to adjust them to environmental conditions if necessary. Furthermore, caregivers constantly monitor the body temperature of the most vulnerable individuals and remain vigilant for early signs of heat-related illness, such as dizziness, weakness, or excessively hot skin, acting swiftly upon any anomaly.
