Patients in NHS hospitals experienced dangerous and uncomfortable conditions during Britain’s record-breaking summer heatwaves, with nurses reporting deaths, worsening illnesses and serious challenges in providing safe care.
A Royal College of Nursing (RCN) survey of 2,471 nursing staff in England and Wales found that extreme temperatures affected patients across hospitals and care settings. Nurses described wards becoming so hot that some patients fainted, became dehydrated or experienced worsening symptoms.
Some hospital wards reached extreme temperatures
One nurse reported that a children’s ward in Yorkshire reached 44°C, while another described heart failure patients being cared for in wards above 30°C, with some windows unable to be opened.
Patients with respiratory and heart conditions were reported to be particularly vulnerable. A nurse in Wales said extreme heat had directly contributed to the deaths of two frail patients, although it was not the sole cause.
In London, a nurse reported increased respiratory distress among newborn babies during the heat. Other nurses said patients experienced slower wound healing, reduced mobility and severe discomfort.
Cancer patients and vulnerable people affected
The survey also highlighted disturbing conditions faced by some seriously ill patients. A London nurse said cancer patients were visibly sweating during chemotherapy because the treatment unit did not have functioning air conditioning.
A palliative-care nurse reported that a patient’s chronic wounds deteriorated during the heat, attracting flies and maggots.
The RCN said 74% of those surveyed had little or no confidence that sufficient government action was being taken to protect health and care services from climate change.
The findings come after the UK Health Security Agency estimated 2,877 heat-associated deaths during major periods of hot weather in May and June 2026.
The RCN is calling for greater investment in cooling systems across hospitals, care homes and other healthcare settings before future heatwaves place patients and staff at further risk.