Longer times in computed tomography for trauma patients result in a decrease in body temperature
Qi-Zheng Ong1, Annelies Vandewege1, Daniel Y Ellis1
1Trauma Service, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
Emergency Medicine Australasia : EMA
|October 22, 2022
Summary
Lower ambient temperatures in computed tomography (CT) rooms can cause hypothermia in trauma patients. Reducing time in CT rooms and implementing warming measures are crucial for patient safety.
Area of Science:
- Emergency Medicine
- Radiology
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Accidental hypothermia is a risk for trauma patients.
- Computed tomography (CT) scans are common in trauma care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between CT room temperature and hypothermia in trauma patients.
- To quantify the impact of time spent in CT on body temperature.
Main Methods:
- Prospective observational study.
- Inclusion of 81 trauma patients undergoing CT scans.
- Measurement of body temperature changes over time in the CT room.
Main Results:
- A significant decrease in body temperature was observed with increased time in the CT room (∆T/t = -0.1483°C/min, P = 0.0026).
- Mean time in CT was 11 minutes for the cohort.
Conclusions:
- Extended duration in CT rooms contributes to hypothermia in trauma patients.
- Clinicians should minimize patient time in CT rooms.
- Active warming strategies are recommended for trauma patients during CT scans.
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