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Prep for Success Thermoregulation
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Prep for Success- OLDER ADULT THERMOREGULATION Thermoregulation is a complex adaptive response that involves many internal and external influences. Internal conditions that affect thermoregulation include metabolic rate, pathologic processes, muscle activity, peripheral blood flow, amount of subcutaneous fat, central nervous system function, the temperature of the blood flowing through the hypothalamus, and effects of medications and other bioactive substances. External influences on thermoregulation include environmental temperature, humidity level, airflow, and the type and amount of clothing and covering used. What part of the brain regulates core body temperature? Hypothalamus List AGE-RELATED changes that interfere with an older adult’s ability to respond to COLD temperatures: (p.525)
When your patient is sick or healthy? Healthy Route(s)? Many thermometers are available now, just make sure to document the route How many times in one day? at different times of the day How many days in a row? for several days when they are feeling well Describe core body temperature fluctuation: Body temp. measurements show a diurnal fluctuation of 1F to 2F w/ lower temps during sleeping and greater fluctuations during periods of fever induced illness. B/c older adults normally have a lower body temp. and may have a diminished febrile response to infection, it is especially important to determine the persons usual temp. as well as to characterize the usual pattern if diurnal variation. ASSESSMENT: HYPOTHERMIA - Recognize assessment findings other than temperature: (p.531)
Severe stages of hypothermia are characterized by muscular rigidity, diminished urinary function, and a progression of all other manifestations to the point of stupor and coma. The skin will feel very cool and, contrary to what might be expected, the color of the skin will be pink. Also contrary to what might be expected, a hypothermic person may not shiver, particularly if the body temperature is below 90°F (32.2°C). Describe the most reliable indicator of elevated temperature in an older adult: (p.531) “An increase of 2F (1C) above the persons baseline What could you teach an older adult to promote health thermoregulation? (p.532- 33)