Revista española de anestesiología y reanimación
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Rev Esp Anestesiol Reanim · Oct 2012
[A survey on the use of fluoroscopy in the treatment of pain: do we perform it correctly?].
Fluoroscopy is technique that is commonly used for procedures in the treatment of pain, but despite its importance in healthcare, many specialists do not know how to use it. We conducted a national survey to evaluate its use. ⋯ There is a lack of information on the handling of the fluoroscope in the area of pain treatment, and this usually leads to the adoption of insufficient radiation protection measures. The treatments are usually performed in the operating theatre. More than half the specialists perform less 10 procedures per week with x-rays. The control and follow-up of radiation values is insufficient, as is the information and protection offered to the patient.
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Hypothermia (body temperature under 36°C) is the thermal disorder most frequently found in surgical patients, but should be avoided as a means of reducing morbidity and costs. Temperature should be considered as a vital sign and all staff involved in the care of surgical patients must be aware that it has to be maintained within normal limits. Maintaining body temperature is the result, as in any other system, of the balance between heat production and heat loss. ⋯ Prevention is the best way to ensure a normal temperature. The active warming of the patient during surgery is mandatory. Using warm air is the most effective, simple and cheap way to prevent and treat hypothermia.