Nurse leaders’ perspective on heat-related challenges and work-organizational interventions in inpatient care settings in Germany: A qualitative descriptive study

In Germany, rising heat-related mortality and hospital admissions are posing significant challenges to healthcare systems. Nurses working in inpatient care facilities are particularly vulnerable because of heat stress. This qualitative descriptive study explores the impact of heat waves on nurses and their work environment in inpatient care facilities. It examines existing interventions to mitigate heat stress and identify areas for improvement. The study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with nurse leaders from inpatient care facilities, including hospitals and long-term care facilities in Saxony, Germany.