Temperature Management in Critically Ill Patient

Abstract

Abstract Background: Body temperature abnormalities are among the most commonly noted symptoms of critically ill patients, and they occur because of several different infectious and non-infectious etiologies. Moreover, these abnormalities frequently trigger changes in patient management. The beneficial effects of fever may include reduction in bacterial growth and promotion of antibodies and cytokines synthesis, thereby activating immune cells and improving survival. Conversely fever is believed to be harmful, especially in patients with life threatening illnesses, because febrile responses are known to increase the metabolic rate, minute ventilation, and oxygen consumption; therefore it can have adverse effects on neurological outcomes. Several studies have also suggested that suppression of the febrile response with antipyretic drugs could worsen patient outcomes. Hypothermia can be caused by a number of factors, including cold exposure, sever infections, endocrine abnormalities, and drug overdose, all of which require intensive care . Temperature is not only an important clinical marker of severity of illness but also an independent predictor of morbidity and mortality in critically ill patient. Objective: The aim of the assay is to review definitions, causes and management of body temperature abnormalities.