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Redistribution hypothermia — FRCA Primary MCQ

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HardPhysiologyRedistribution hypothermiaFRCA Primary

A patient’s core temperature falls by 1.2°C during the first hour of general anaesthesia in a warm theatre. What is the most likely mechanism?

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Correct answer: C — Core-to-peripheral heat redistribution after anaesthetic vasodilation

The best answer is “Core-to-peripheral heat redistribution after anaesthetic vasodilation”. The early, rapid fall in core temperature after induction is mainly caused by redistribution of heat from the core to the peripheral compartment as anaesthesia-induced vasodilation occurs. It is not primarily sweating, thermogenesis, increased vasoconstriction or evaporative heat gain.

Reference: RCoA, FRCA Primary MCQ examination: https://rcoa.ac.uk/examinations/primary-frca-examination/frca-primary-mcq-examination