Cold Weather Advisory for Nursing Homes
On Oct. 3rd, the Department of Health (DOH) issued Dear Administrator Letter (DAL) NH 20-13 on safeguarding nursing home residents during the cold weather. The guidance, issued each year, reminds nursing homes of the need to keep residents safe and comfortable during the winter months as many residents are at risk for cold-related illnesses.
The DAL outlines what staff should look for in order to recognize conditions such as frostbite or hypothermia, as well as how to manage those conditions should they occur. Additionally, the DAL encourages nursing homes to ensure that their heating systems are in good order and that they review all systems, including emergency evacuation procedures, to make sure that all procedures and policies are up to date.
Contact: Elliott Frost, efrost@leadingageny.org, 518-441-8761