// BBC UK NEWS — CRONACA
Heatwaves drive A&E attendances up to record high
England's A&Es are experiencing their busiest period ever, with the record-breaking heat cited as a key factor.
More than 2.4 million patients attended emergency departments each month for May, June and July – the three highest monthly totals recorded in history.
NHS bosses say the pressure has been as bad as it is in winter months. The extreme heat has caused people to fall ill with dehydration and heatstroke, and has increased the risk of complications for those with heart, kidney and respiratory problems.
It comes as unions warn staff are being forced to work in inhumane conditions because of the heat, with reports of some collapsing and others having seizures.
The problems have been further complicated by equipment, including scanners and IT systems, breaking down.
NHS medical director Prof Frankie Swords praised the "outstanding professionalism" of staff and said the situation was making delivering care challenging.
She advised: "With temperatures peaking today, please take sensible precautions to stay safe - keep hydrated, avoid the sun during the hottest part of the day, especially if you are clinically vulnerable, and check in on older or vulnerable friends, relatives and neighbours."
Health Secretary Yvette Cooper, who also thanked staff for their efforts in the past few months, said: "Today's figures also show how much of an additional burden is placed on the NHS during periods of extreme heat - and I have made clear that we must start planning for summer pressures in the NHS in the same way we do for winter."
The Royal College of Nursing said action was needed, describing the conditions care was being delivered in as "inhumane".
In testimonies from members, nurses reported how they had been left dripping in sweat from "head to toe" while seeing patients.