Preventative measures taken against hypothermia in selected Durban hospitals' emergency centres and operating theatres.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Hypothermia is common in emergency general surgical patients. It is known to be associated with major complications in multiple organ systems. It is also easily preventable with the use of safe and cost-effective equipment. However, by observation, it appears that this equipment is used too infrequently thus resulting in unnecessary harm to patients.

Methods

This descriptive, observational, cross-sectional study was conducted in two arms to evaluate both emergency centres and operating theatres in the major state hospitals in Durban. It was conducted as an audit as well as a questionnaire-based study, to ascertain the availability of equipment used to prevent hypothermia and also how appropriately the equipment was being used.

Results

There was good avail

SUBMITTER: Nel MJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6234136 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature