Peri-operative warming is well established for general operations, but there is limited literature on the active warming of pregnant women undergoing caesarean section (CS). Specifically, there is a lack of evidence on the effect, if any, of actively warming mothers on the new-born's temperature and general wellbeing. The two active warming methods recommended by NICE are the use of forced-air warming and fluid warmers. Women's temperature tends to fall below the normal level (36.0oC to 37.5oC) during caesarean section if they have not been actively warmed during their operation (peri-operative). Peri-operative hypothermia may increase the morbidities experienced by women after caesarean section. While shivering is the most common postoperative incident, hypothermia may delay wound healing or increase the risk of wound infection, and can increase the risk of haemorrhage. Neonatal hypothermia has a direct effect on the baby's cardiopulmonary, vascular system and central nervous system and increases the risks of mortality and morbidity. Specifically, neonatal hypothermia can lead to respiratory difficulties and apnoea, hypoxemia, carbon dioxide retention, metabolic acidosis, hypoglycaemia and decreased oxygen delivery to the tissues. The absence of research and evidence on the effects of actively warming women undergoing caesarean section at term gestation on the temperature of new-borns during SSC means that further research is required.
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Neonatal hypothermia
Timeframe: approximately 50 minutes after delivery