Circulating fluid heating pads

We evaluated nine heating pads of three basic types (all-plastic single-patient-use, covered single-patient-use, and all-plastic reusable) from three manufacturers. All of the heating pads are rated Acceptable. We based our ratings on the pads' heat transfer performance and their ease of use and versatility according to application (i.e., single-patient-use or reusable). Two of the all-plastic pads can be used for both applications. See the Supplement at the end of this evaluation for a discussion of purchasing considerations.