A team approach to the prevention of unplanned postoperative hypothermia.
Postoperative hypothermia (ie, a core temperature lower than 96.8 degrees F [36 degrees C]), is a problem frequently seen in surgical patients, especially those undergoing total joint replacement. Patients who experience hypothermia may have increased recovery times and postoperative complications. A team of clinical staff members and personnel from the performance improvement (PI) department of a hospital used a PI model to incorporate use of preoperative forced-air warming blankets that resulted in improved postoperative core temperatures.
Bitner
Jason
J
Methodist Medical Center of Illinois, Peoria, IL, USA.
Hilde
Leana
L
Hall
Kenneth
K
Duvendack
Tammy
T
D019643:Arthroplasty, Replacement / Q000009:adverse effects; D001512:Bedding and Linens; D001831:Body Temperature; D006361:Heating; D006801:Humans; D007035:Hypothermia / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011300:Preoperative Care / Q000379:methods; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*