Live Chat
Order Tracking
Postanesthetic shivering is an involuntary, rhythmic muscle activity occurring during emergence from anesthesia. It affects 20-50% of surgical patients, potentially leading to discomfort, increased metabolic rate, and cardiovascular strain.

Zofran

 Ondansetron

4|8mg

From $0.96
Select pack

Postanesthetic Shivering FAQ

What causes postanesthetic shivering?

It's primarily caused by anesthesia-induced hypothermia, pain, or anesthesia-induced imbalance in the body's thermoregulatory mechanisms.

Is postanesthetic shivering dangerous?

While usually harmless, it can increase oxygen consumption, heart rate, and blood pressure, potentially straining the cardiovascular system.

How is postanesthetic shivering treated?

Treatment involves warming the patient, administering analgesics, or using specific anti-shivering medications like meperidine.

Can postanesthetic shivering be prevented?

Prevention includes maintaining normothermia during surgery, using regional anesthesia, and administering prophylactic anti-shivering medications.

What medications are used for prevention?

Common prophylactic medications include opioids (e.g., fentanyl, morphine), alpha-2 agonists (e.g., dexmedetomidine), and NMDA receptor antagonists.

How long does postanesthetic shivering last?

Typically subsides within 15-30 minutes with appropriate treatment, but duration varies depending on the individual and severity.

Does shivering affect recovery time?

It may prolong recovery time in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) due to the need for additional monitoring and treatment.

Is postanesthetic shivering a sign of pain?

Pain can contribute to shivering, but it's not the sole cause; hypothermia and anesthesia effects also play significant roles.

Can children experience postanesthetic shivering?

Yes, children are also susceptible, especially after general anesthesia. Prevention and treatment strategies are similar to those for adults.

What role does temperature play?

Maintaining a core body temperature above 36°C (96.8°F) is crucial, as hypothermia is a primary trigger for shivering.

Are there non-pharmacological treatments?

Yes, passive or active warming methods (e.g., forced-air warmers, heated blankets) are effective non-pharmacological interventions.

Does shivering increase the risk of complications?

It may increase the risk of myocardial ischemia, particularly in patients with pre-existing heart conditions, due to increased myocardial oxygen demand.

How is postanesthetic shivering diagnosed?

Diagnosis is clinical, based on observation of shivering and the patient's post-anesthesia status, without specific laboratory tests.

Can postanesthetic shivering be a sign of an underlying condition?

It's usually a direct response to anesthesia and surgery, but underlying conditions (e.g., hyperthyroidism) may increase susceptibility.

What is the most effective treatment for severe shivering?

A combination of rapid warming and administration of meperidine or other anti-shivering agents is often most effective for severe cases.

Releated topics