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nadvertent perioperative hypothermia is a preventable com-
plication that can have disastrous consequences. A patient
whose temperature dips below 36°C will react to the cold.
Their arteries and veins constrict, leading to possible angina
attacks, ventricular tachycardia and dysrhythmias.
Thrombocytes lose their function as a coagulation mediator, causing
more blood loss. The patient experiences a prolonged medication
effect, more pain and a higher risk for surgical site infection.
Justin D. (J.D.) Buchert, MSN, MEd, MS, RN | Dallas
Patient Warming Pays Off Big
Maintaining normothermia isn't always easy, but it's always well worth it.
BLANKET STATEMENT Justin D. (J.D.) Buchert, MSN, MEd, MS, RN, places a blanket prewarmed at 130°F on a patient in the
pre-op phase of the surgical process.
Parkland
Hospital
