choose, including forced-
air warming coverlets,
conductive blankets and
mattresses placed over
and under patients, reflec-
tive thermal blankets that
trap the patient's own
body heat and warm cir-
culating water mattresses.
Smaller warming units
are mounted on walls next
to patient beds in the pre-op and holding areas. These smaller units
deliver enough heated air to pre-warm patients, who can adjust the
air flow to their comfort, and keep floors clear of tripping hazards
in the busy, high-traffic areas.
We note the many clinical benefits of maintaining normothermia
on laminated scripts that are attached to each wall-mounted unit
(see "Post This Patient Warming Cheat Sheet"). The scripts ensure
every staff member who comes in contact with patients, even those
who don't regularly care for them in pre- and post-op areas, under-
stand the clinical importance of patient warming and maintaining
normothermia. That's where the script comes in handy. Any
provider, no matter how well-versed they are with our patient
warming protocols can refer to the script when interacting with
patients.
When providers touch on the script's talking points, patients
reach a new understanding of warming's benefits — including its
link to lower risks of surgical site infections — and are more
accepting of being warmed, even when they feel comfortable.
In the OR, patients' gowns are connected to a larger floor-based
4 4 • O U T PA T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E • J U L Y 2 0 1 9
• COMFORT ZONE Patients appreciate how active warming makes them
feel, but are often unaware of its clinical importance.
Pamela
Bevelhymer,
RN,
BSN,
CNOR
