Loss of thermoregulation is one of many problems experienced by patients with severe burn injury. [Insert Reference Here]. Loss of skin integrity compromises intrinsic thermoregulatory mechanisms. Maintenance of normothermia in the periope-rative period has been extensively studied. [Insert Reference] Known benefits for the patient include surgical hemostasis, improved wound healing, reduced surgical site infection, reliable drug metabolism, reduced shivering, and improved patient comfort. Hypothermia is also the most frequent temperature-related malady in the operating room, occurring initially from the redistribution of core heat to the periphery, followed by a negative balance of heat production to environmental heat loss. Forced-air warming is the most frequently used and effective modality to prevent intraoperative hypothermia, being widely available, inexpensive and safe (X). Hypothermia in burn patients is independently associated with poor outcomes. (X)
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