Question

Which factor may predispose a patient to unintended hypothermia during surgery?

A. High room temperature in the operating room
B. Warm intravenous fluids
C. Excessive layers of insulation on the patient
D. Use of a warming blanket

Answer 1

A high room temperature in the operating room is a factor that may predispose a patient to unintended hypothermia during surgery, as it can lead to a reduction in the body's own heat production.

Step-by-step explanation:

The factor that may predispose a patient to unintended hypothermia during surgery is a high room temperature in the operating room. This may seem counterintuitive, but if the operating room is too warm, it can lead to a decrease in the metabolic rate of heating in the patient's body, and as a consequence, the body's own heat production may become insufficient to maintain its normal temperature. Other factors listed, such as warm intravenous fluids, excessive layers of insulation, and the use of a warming blanket, are typically employed to prevent hypothermia, not cause it.