Hypothermia


Hypothermia is becoming the treatment of choice for the cardiac arrest victim who has had a return of circulation. Hospitals and emergency rooms have implemented the Hypothermia Protocol differently according to their capabilities. Those patient’s requiring cardiac catheterization care are treated with the hypothermia protocol as well. The cool temperatures slow the metabolic rate systemically as well as centrally. Anaerobic metabolism is slowly reversed which helps to save brain tissue. We may see more aggressive treatment as we move into the new millennium. The medical community perceives this treatment to be helpful for patient’s suffering from ischemia in other areas of concern. The stroke and trauma patient who is compromised may benefit from the hypothermia protocol. For further information, please visit the American Heart Association.

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