KP Hospitals to Establish Heatwave Emergency Units
KP Health Department Orders Hospitals to Prepare for Heatwave Emergencies
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Health Department has issued an advisory instructing hospitals across the province to set up heatwave emergency units. This move comes as rising temperatures and global warming increase the risk of heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses.
Advisory Details
The directive, issued by the Directorate General Health Services, was sent to:
- District health officers
- Medical superintendents
- Medical directors of teaching institutions
Hospitals have been asked to ensure round-the-clock readiness during the summer season.
Facilities in Emergency Units
Each hospital’s heatwave ward will be equipped with:
- Essential medicines
- Intravenous fluids
- Cooling equipment
- Other necessary supplies for timely management of heatstroke cases
Vulnerable Groups
The advisory highlights that certain groups are at greater risk during extreme heat, including:
- Elderly people
- Children and infants
- Pregnant women
- Athletes
- Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions
Heatstroke Risks and Symptoms
Heatstroke is described as a medical emergency that can cause death, permanent organ damage, or disability if untreated. It occurs when the body’s temperature rises rapidly and cannot cool itself through sweating.
Symptoms include:
- Heavy or absent sweating
- Hot, flushed skin
- Weakness and lethargy
- Severe headache and high fever
- Confusion, dizziness, hallucinations
- Slurred speech
Why It Matters
Recent heatwaves have already led to serious illness and deaths, especially in rural and underserved areas. By setting up emergency units, KP hospitals aim to reduce the burden on the healthcare system and provide timely treatment to those affected.
This initiative underscores the importance of preparedness and proactive healthcare measures as Pakistan faces increasingly severe climate challenges.