Application of Blanket Warmer to Increase Body Temperature in Post-Cesarean Hypothermia: A Case Study

Rabiatul Adawiya; Ita Indraswati; Y Bambang Dwi Atmoko

doi:10.56359/kian.v5i2.1029

Authors

Rabiatul Adawiya Universitas Muhammadiyah PKU Surakarta
Ita Indraswati Universitas Muhammadiyah PKU Surakarta
Y Bambang Dwi Atmoko RSUP Surakarta

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56359/kian.v5i2.1029

Keywords:

blanket warmer, body temperature, hypothermia, postoperative, recovery room

Abstract

Introduction: Postoperative hypothermia is a common complication caused by the effects of anesthesia, low operating room temperature, and impaired thermoregulation. Untreated hypothermia may increase the risk of shivering, bleeding, surgical site infection, delayed wound healing, and prolonged recovery. One of the non-pharmacological nursing interventions used to manage postoperative hypothermia is the application of a blanket warmer.

Objective: To describe the application of a blanket warmer in increasing body temperature among postoperative hypothermic patients in the recovery room of the Central Surgical Installation.

Method: This Final Nursing Scientific Project employed a descriptive case study, without a comparison group, involving three postoperative patients with hypothermia in the recovery room. A blanket warmer set at 38°C was applied for 20 minutes. Body temperature was measured before and after the intervention using a digital thermometer, and changes in body temperature were evaluated.

Result: All patients showed an increase in body temperature following the intervention, from 35.0°C to 36.1°C in the first case, from 33.6°C to 35.8°C in the second case, and from 35.2°C to 36.0°C in the third case. All patients also reported reduced shivering and cold sensation, resulting in improved comfort during recovery.

Conclusion: The application of a blanket warmer for 20 minutes was associated with an increase in body temperature and a reduction in shivering and cold sensation among the postoperative hypothermic patients observed. As this descriptive case study did not include a comparison group, these findings are preliminary; controlled studies with larger samples are needed before the intervention can be recommended as standard practice

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