ADDRESSING HYPERTHERMIA VS. HYPOTHERMIA
Addressing Hyperthermia Hyperthermia is recognized as a temperature which is above normal. A severe form of this condition may be recognized as heat stroke. ( A temperature which is above 104 degrees). Heat stroke if left untreated, may lead to further problems. The hypothalamus is the temperature regulating center of the brain. Injury to this part of the brain as in the case of trauma , may also result in hyperthermia. Antipyretics are used to decrease the temperature and prevent hyperthermia. Cooling measures like a cooling blanket, may also be used. Addressing Hypothermia Hypothermia is defined as a drop in core temperature of less than 95 Fahrenheit (35 Celsius).Regardless of the cause, it is considered to be life-threatening. The postoperative patient is at risk for hypothermia. Fluid loss and exposure in the surgical suite, may predispose to hypothermia. Hypothermia increases the body's demand ...