The role of thermoregulation in cardiac resuscitation.

Regulating a patient's body temperature has long been within the scope of practice of the critical care nurse. Different measures and modalities have been used to achieve normothermia in the past. Recent research has demonstrated how crucial body temperature can be, not only because of its potential for neuroprotection but also because of its effects on all body systems. The general consensus of current literature is that maintaining mild hypothermia at 32 degrees to 34 degrees C (89.6 degrees-93.2 degrees F) for 12 to 24 hours after cardiac arrest may provide optimal neuroprotection with minimal complications for patients.