From the Guidelines
Hyperthermia in neonates should be treated by removing warmth sources and closely monitoring temperature.
Treatment of Hyperthermia
To manage hyperthermia in neonates, it is essential to avoid overheating and maintain a normal body temperature between 36.5°C and 37.5°C 1.
- Removing warmth sources: This can include turning off radiant warmers or removing thermal mattresses to prevent further heat gain.
- Monitoring temperature: Close monitoring of the neonate's temperature is crucial to ensure that it returns to a normal range and to avoid hypothermia.
- Environmental temperature control: Maintaining an environmental temperature between 23°C to 25°C can help in managing hyperthermia 1. It is also important to note that hyperthermia (greater than 38.0°C) should be avoided due to the potential associated risks 1. In resource-limited settings, simple measures such as nursing the newborn with skin-to-skin contact or kangaroo mother care can be effective in maintaining normothermia 1. However, the use of thermal mattresses should be done with caution due to the risk of hyperthermia and skin burns 1. Overall, the goal is to maintain a normal body temperature and avoid both hypothermia and hyperthermia, as both conditions can have adverse effects on the neonate's health.
From the Research
Administration for Hyperthermia in Neonates
To address hyperthermia in neonates, several methods can be employed:
- Maintaining a thermoneutral environment to minimize energy expenditure and oxygen consumption 2
- Using thermal mattresses to prevent hypothermia, although this may increase the risk of hyperthermia if not monitored properly 3
- Implementing slow rewarming as the main intervention measure after the occurrence of hypothermia, with rapid rewarming being a more controversial approach 4
- Avoiding excessive heat gain through conduction, convection, radiation, and evaporation to prevent hyperthermia 2
Prevention of Hyperthermia
Prevention strategies for hyperthermia in neonates include:
- Maintaining optimal ambient temperatures in the delivery room and NICU 3, 2
- Using appropriate thermoregulation techniques, such as thermal mattresses and warm blankets, while monitoring for signs of hyperthermia 3, 5
- Ensuring proper communication between the medical team and parents regarding the risks and management of hyperthermia 6
Management of Hyperthermia
While there are no detailed guidelines for rewarming in early neonatal hypothermia, slow rewarming is generally advocated 4. It is essential to monitor neonates closely for signs of hyperthermia and adjust thermoregulation strategies accordingly to prevent adverse outcomes 3, 5, 2