What is the threshold for hypothermia in the PACU?

In the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), the threshold for hypothermia is defined as a core body temperature of less than 36 degrees Celsius. This standard is important because maintaining normothermia is critical for patient recovery after anesthesia. Hypothermia can lead to a range of complications, such as increased risk of wound infection, delayed recovery, and impaired coagulation.

In clinical practice, temperatures are typically monitored closely during the PACU stay, and interventions may be initiated when the temperature falls below this threshold. It's essential for healthcare providers to recognize and address hypothermia promptly to facilitate optimal recovery and reduce the risk of related complications. This understanding reinforces the importance of continuous temperature monitoring in the PACU setting.

The other options suggest different temperature thresholds, which do not align with the commonly accepted clinical definition of hypothermia in a postoperative setting.