Microwave oven: how to use it as a crystalloid fluid warmer.

BACKGROUND

Hypothermia is a common complication in the hypovolemic patient. Warm intravenous fluids have proven valuable at preventing this complication during volume replacement. The microwave oven is considered an applicable alternative method for warming fluids but no protocol has been established.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and affected variables of the microwave oven in warming crystalloid fluids and to determine the appropriate formula for calculating the warming duration.

RESULTS

The important variables influencing the operation of the microwave oven include the difference between the crystalloid fluid and room temperature, the microwave oven's capability, variations in microwave irradiation, and fluid shaking. The appropriate formula for calculating warming duration is: Duration (sec) = Volume (cc) x 4.2j.g(-1).K(-1) x Raised temperature DeltaT (K) x 1.1 (Adjusted power) / Mivcwrowave power (W).

CONCLUSION

The microwave oven is a safe and practical method for warming crystalloid fluids.