Idea Exchange: Use heating pads to warm IV fluids

When presented with patients with severely decreased body temperatures, we often have trouble warming the IV fluid bags safely and keeping them warm. However, we've found that by wrapping the IV fluid bag in a heating pad set on low, we are able to warm the fluids and keep them warm. It is important to make sure there are no leaks in the bag. It is also important to note that the longer the IV line and extension set and the slower the flow rate, the longer the IV fluids are exposed to the room temperature and allowed to cool back down.

Dr. Jeff Fink

Orrville, Ohio