Hot weather at home will likely lead to a rise in people suffering from heat stroke, exhaustion, dehydration and sun burn. Independent Nurse presents its Top 5 summer health articles to help you cope:
Hydration
Hydration is essential in maintaining good health during the summer months, but some patients may have difficulty swallowing fluids, which can lead to dehydration. This article discusses how to manage dysphagia and improve a patient's capacity to swallow.
http://www.independentnurse.co.uk/clinical-article/dysphagia-and-safe-swallowing/86310/
Hay fever
During the summer, many people experience a blocked nose, irritation to the eyes, and persistent sneezing, as a result of seasonal rhinoconjunctivitis, more commonly known as hay fever. This condition can effect a child's social life, as they may be unable to play outside with their peers. This article explains how nurses can support children to thrive during hay fever season.
http://www.independentnurse.co.uk/clinical-article/helping-children-thrive-during-hay-fever-season/82315/
Sun-related conditions
Sunburn and other conditions related to prolonged exposure to the sun can have a major impact on dermatological health, significantly raising the chance of a patient developing skin cancer. Here are some of the common presentations and treatments for sun-related conditions that primary care nurses are likely to encounter.
http://www.independentnurse.co.uk/clinical-article/sun-related-conditions/64483/
Keeping well on holiday
Cruise ships are a popular holiday choice for many people in the UK, but they often pose a risk to health, due to an increased chance of contracting infectious diseases such as influenza and gastroenteritis. This article details the information and advice nurses should give to patients planning to go on a cruise, to minimise the risk of illness.
http://www.independentnurse.co.uk/clinical-article/keeping-well-on-cruises/75598/
Travel vaccinations
With millions of UK residents travelling abroad each summer, it is crucial for nurses to be aware of which vaccinations are require for travelling to different areas. These range from routine vaccinations for conditions such as tetanus and polio, to immunisation for rarer diseases such as yellow fever and encephalitis.
http://www.independentnurse.co.uk/clinical-article/travel-health-routine-and-required-vaccines/63627/