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Clonidine at induction reduces shivering after general anaesthesia
1Department of Anaesthesia, Cappagh Orthopaedic Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.
Summary
Clonidine administered during anesthesia induction significantly reduces post-anesthetic shivering and improves patient comfort. This study found a lower incidence of shivering and a warmer subjective perception in patients who received clonidine.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Post-anesthetic shivering is a common complication affecting 5-65% of patients.
- Shivering can lead to patient discomfort and adverse physiological consequences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of 150 micrograms of clonidine given at anesthesia induction.
- To assess the impact on perioperative temperature, shivering incidence, and patient-reported cold perception.
Main Methods:
- A randomized trial involving 60 patients undergoing elective orthopedic surgery.
- Patients received either 150 mcg clonidine or saline placebo intravenously before induction.
- Core and peripheral temperatures were monitored, and shivering and thermal comfort were assessed post-operatively.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in core or peripheral temperatures were observed between groups.
- Clonidine significantly reduced the incidence of post-anesthetic shivering (20% vs. 66.7%, P < 0.001).
- Patients receiving clonidine reported a significantly better thermal comfort score (P < 0.05).
Conclusions:
- Intravenous clonidine at 150 mcg administered during anesthesia induction is effective.
- Clonidine reduces the incidence of post-anesthetic shivering.
- Clonidine improves patients' subjective perception of cold upon emergence from anesthesia.