Therapeutic hypothermia

What are the benefits of therapeutic hypothermia?

• Provides neuroprotection

• Prevents reperfusion injury

• Stabilizes brain cells

• Limits inflammation

What temperature should the infant be cooled at?

33.5C

How often should the temp be monitored and what route?

The infant’s temperature is typically measured continuously with either a rectal or endotracheal monitor during treatment. 

What should be initiated before therapeutic hypothermia?

Infants should be intubated and have IV access prior to initiating therapeutic hypothermia.

What should be determined as baseline and checked frequently while going through treatment?

Baseline neurologic status should be determined, and frequent neuro checks should be performed while undergoing treatment.

What medication will be used for comfort during care?

Infants may need morphine for comfort while undergoing therapeutic hypothermia.

How fast should rewarming be done? what is the purpose?

Rewarming should occur slowly at a rate of 0.5C every 2 hours. This helps to preserve benefits of cooling and prevent reperfusion injury.

Who is also using therapeutic hypothermia?

NOTE: Also used in adults for MI, TBI, meningitis, or stroke → any time there is concern for brain swelling