Let’s face it — summers in Dallas are hot!
While the rest of the year is perfect, we prefer to stay cool inside for most of July and August. Still, as a home health nurse, CNA, or caregiver in Dallas, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect not only your clients but yourself from heat exhaustion.
5 Tips for Home Health CNAs to Prevent Heat Stroke in Dallas
Summer is for self-care! With just a bit of planning and preparation, you can feel calm, cool, and confident as you care for yourself and your clients.
To help, we’ve researched 5 tips for home health CNAs and caregivers in Dallas:
- Increase your water intake. If you’re feeling thirsty, you’re already dehydrated! Make a habit of carrying around a refillable water bottle: one for you and one for your client.
- Dress in lightweight clothing. Comfort is key. Opt for lightweight scrubs to keep cool as you move around throughout the day. Encourage your client to dress in loose, breathable fabrics to help regulate their temperature.
- Take advantage of early mornings. Getting outside and enjoying the fresh air is vital, not just for your physical health but for your mental health. Enjoy the early morning’s cooler temperatures, whether going for a morning stroll before work or eating breakfast outside with your client.
- Help keep their home comfortable. Make a habit of checking on the thermostat when you arrive at your client’s home, throughout the day, and before leaving. Keeping fans on, an air conditioning set, and curtains closed during the afternoon can help their home feel cool and comfortable.
- Know the signs of heat stroke. Heat stroke and exhaustion aren’t to be taken lightly. Knowing the signs of heat stroke can save a life and prevent illness in yourself and your client.
If you or your client are overheated and start developing a headache, nausea, dizziness, or fever, check your temperature and apply emergency heat procedures immediately.
More Than Just Heat Tips for Caregivers in Dallas
While these summer months can get a bit sweltering, following these simple, effective heat tips for caregivers in Dallas can keep you and your clients cool, safe, and healthy.
By caring for yourself, you can better take care of your clients. During these summer at Home Health Companions, our goal is to care for our clients and staff with respect, honor, and compassion.
We’re honored to have earned recognition from our employers and clients as a Best of Home Care Employer for 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2022. It’s all thanks to our amazing team and their continued dedication and hard work day after day. They truly prove healthcare workers are heroes!
Suppose you’re interested in joining our Home Health Companions team. In that case, we’re always looking to help more CNAs further their home health careers while enjoying competitive pay, benefits, and continuing education opportunities. Want to learn more about our benefits? Click here to apply and learn more!