FDA recommends use of thermal regulating systems during surgery

Editor's Note

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on August 30 issued a Safety Alert reminding healthcare providers that using thermal regulating systems, including forced air systems, during surgical procedures has been shown to result in less bleeding, faster recovery times, and decreased risk of infections for patients.

The FDA recently became aware that some healthcare providers and patients may be avoiding the use of forced air systems because of a potential increased risk of surgical site infections (SSIs).

After a review of data, the FDA has not been able to identify an association between the use of forced air thermal regulating systems and SSIs.

Therefore, the FDA continues to recommend the use of thermal regulating systems, including forced air systems, for surgical procedures when warranted. Performing surgical procedures without the use of a thermal regulating system may cause adverse health consequences for patients postoperatively.

Posted 08/30/2017] AUDIENCE: Surgery, Nursing, Anesthesia ISSUE: The FDA is reminding health care providers that using thermoregulation devices during surgery, including forced air thermoregulating systems, have been demonstrated to result in less bleeding, faster recovery times, and decreased risk of infection for patients.