Hypothermia Effects Observed Under Anesthesia: An Integrative Literature Review

Abstract

Of the regular temperature of approximately 37°C, about 0.8°C are dedicated to the internal maintenance of the brain, heart and organs located in the abdomen, being said of the central temperature, with the aim of avoiding large variations in temperature, in order to favour the functions of the vital systems. When the central temperature drops to less than 36°C, then hypothermia occurs.The studies suggest the control and monitoring of the patient's temperature during surgery, and point out strategies for the maintenance of the temperature and loss of heat in the patient, from preheating with varying duration thermal blanket and heating of intravenous fluids.Thinking about this, the objective of this review was to provide comprehensive information about the effects of perioperative hypothermia and its risks and consequences in patients undergoing the anesthetic act within and outside the surgical block, from the study of the current available literature.The research led to ten publications, mostly listed with level I evidence (5); in other level II articles (2); only one level III article and fourth level articles. All the papers explored the control, monitoring, consequences and risks of perioperative hypothermia. Concluding that continuing education, training, building skills to implement the current hypothermia management guidelines and institutional support are fundamental aspects inining episodes of perioperative hypothermie.