What is the appropriate temperature for warmed IV fluids in hypothermia treatment?

When treating hypothermia, the goal is to rewarm the patient safely and effectively. The appropriate temperature for warmed IV fluids used in hypothermia treatment is generally between 39°C (102°F) and 40°C (104°F). Administration of IV fluids at this temperature helps to promote rewarming without risking thermal shock to the patient’s vascular system.

Option B, at 39°C (102°F), supports this goal well as it is high enough to provide effective warming, yet still within a safe range to avoid potential complications that may arise from higher temperatures. When fluids are too cool, they can inadvertently lower the core body temperature. Conversely, fluids that are too hot can lead to vascular complications or damage to the tissue at the infusion site.

Temperature ranges for warmed fluids should align with current guidelines, which emphasize that IV fluids should be warm but not so hot as to harm the patient. Ensuring the fluids are warmer than normal body temperature assists in re-establishing normothermia through passive warming mechanisms. Thus, using 39°C (102°F) fluids contributes positively to the rewarming process in hypothermia treatment.