An emergency department nurse moves to a new city where heat-related illnesses are common. Which clients does the nurse anticipate being at highest risk for heat-related illnesses? (Select all that apply.)
a. Homeless individuals
b. People with substance abuse disorders
c. Caucasians
d. Hockey players
e. Older adults
f. Obese individuals
The correct answer and explanation is:
The clients most at risk for heat-related illnesses in this scenario are:
- a. Homeless individuals
- b. People with substance abuse disorders
- f. Obese individuals
- e. Older adults
Explanation:
- Homeless individuals (a): Homeless people are often exposed to extreme weather conditions without shelter or access to cooling systems. They might also lack proper hydration, nutrition, or access to healthcare, which heightens their vulnerability to heat-related illnesses. They are often unable to escape the heat and may not recognize or report symptoms early.
- People with substance abuse disorders (b): Substance abuse can lead to dehydration, poor circulation, and altered body temperature regulation. Alcohol and certain drugs can impair the body’s ability to sense or respond to temperature changes. People who are intoxicated or withdrawing are also less likely to take steps to protect themselves from extreme temperatures.
- Obese individuals (f): Obesity increases the body’s heat retention, making it harder to cool down. The added fat layer can impair the body’s ability to regulate temperature efficiently. Additionally, obesity often comes with associated conditions like cardiovascular diseases that can further complicate the body’s response to heat.
- Older adults (e): Older adults are more vulnerable due to several factors, including a decreased ability to sweat and regulate body temperature. Age-related changes in skin, blood circulation, and kidney function can also make them less responsive to heat stress. Additionally, older adults may have chronic medical conditions, such as heart disease, that increase the risks of heat-related illnesses.
Caucasians (c) and hockey players (d) are not specifically at higher risk. Ethnicity alone doesn’t determine heat risk unless combined with other factors. Hockey players, while they may face heat stress during physical exertion, are typically conditioned athletes who can handle environmental stressors better than the general population.