Rowe Nursing 114

Burns are covered under Common Disorders.

Poisoning is covered under Common Disorders.

hyperthermia
Definition(s):
1. Artificial elevation of body temperature for therapeutic reasons.
2. An unusually high fever. SYN: hyperpyrexia

Etiology:
Hyperthermia may be caused by heat stroke; central nervous system diseases; thyroid storm; and infections including encephalitis, malaria, meningitis, or sepsis, esp. due to gram-negative organisms.

Patient Care:
To treat hyperthermia, the patient is placed in a cool environment; tepid water baths may be used to promote reduction in surface temperature by convection and evaporation. Hypothermia blankets may be used if hyperthermia is the result of neurologic dysfunction or initial therapy is ineffective. Fluid intake is increased to at least 3 liters per day (unless otherwise restricted by cardiac or renal disorders) to replace fluids lost through diaphoresis, rapid respirations, and increased metabolic activity. Frequent oral hygiene is provided because dehydration dries the oral mucosa. Shivering is prevented through administration of diazepam.

CAUTION: Rubbing alcohol should not be used to reduce fever.

malignant hyperthermia: An autosomal dominant disease marked by skeletal muscle dysfunction after exposure to some anesthetics or other stressors. Body temperatures may climb above 105° F (40.5°C). The condition may be fatal.