Impact of Heatwaves on Emergency Departments in Singapore: A Qualitative Study on Perceptions of Health Care Workers

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the current state of knowledge and perceptions towards heatwaves of emergency department (ED) health care workers in Singapore and investigate potential strategies and solutions to improve the knowledge and readiness.

Methods: A qualitative study conducted in Khoo Teck Puat Hospital in Singapore, using semi-structured, face-to-face interviews with an open-ended interview guide on emergency physicians and registered nurses of various lengths of work experience actively working in the ED. Thematic analysis was employed involving memo-writing, coding, and theme-development with constant comparison.

Results: Six themes- (1) Knowledge and understanding of Extreme Weather Events, (2) Knowledge and risk-assessment of Heatwaves, (3) Impressions of increased vulnerability to heatwaves, (4) Preventive measures for acute heat related illness, (5) Heatwave impact on the emergency department, and (6) Potential strategies and solutions-emerged and were presented in an interactive framework. Overall, it emerged that there is basic foundational knowledge, with more education and training required, especially targeting the knowledge gaps identified. There is also a need to increase awareness of heatwaves and their impact on health, and to develop comprehensive extreme heat response plans.

Conclusions: The findings provide a framework for emergency departments to guide their preparations for inevitable heatwaves and their associated health impacts.

Keywords: climate change; disaster medicine; emergency department; extreme heat; heatwaves; perceptions.