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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 4 | S U P P L E M E N T T O O U T P AT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E
Unintentional hypothermia is very
common in the early post-op period.
In fact, only approximately half of all
patients entering the PACU have core
body temperatures of 36°C.
Hypothermia can be prevented by
actively warming patients before,
during and possibly after surgery, and
taking precautionary measures
throughout the perioperative process.
For example, only expose the surgi-
cal site to the elements in the OR,
placing blankets and drapes over the
rest of the body. Keeping the patient's
head and feet covers on throughout
surgery also limits heat loss). Employ
active warming. Newer custom drapes
and gowns that attach to forced-air
units allow for warming to continue
while giving surgeons the access they
need to surgical sites. Tabletop heat-
ing solutions warm patients without
restricting access to patients. Using
fluid warmers to heat intravenous
fluid to roughly 37°C can prevent the
0.25°C decrease in temperature
caused by every 1 liter of IV solution
administered at room temperature.
P A T I E N T W A R M I N G
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temperature
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Stop Guessing
Start Knowing
© 2014 Ecolab USA Inc. All rights reserved.
A gloved hand is not a good thermometer.
Fluid that's too warm can risk patient safety
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to unintentional hypothermia. Fluid
temperature matters.
For more information: 800 824 3027 or
www.ecolab.com/healthcare
Ecolab Fluid Warming Systems deliver
precise temperature control during surgery
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