Principles of Temperature Measurement Flashcards
Define thermoregulation
the balance of heat gain and heat loss
What is the normal body temperature
37 degrees C
What do body tissues do to maintain body temp?
produce heat as a result of cell metabolism
The hypothalamus is known as …
the body thermostat controlling the body temp
What does the hypothalamus do to maintain body temp?
- initiates heat losing activities when nec.
- blood vessels come to surface to relieve heat
- flush on your face to release heat
- sweat
- heat gaining activities if nec. - shivering
What happens if the body temp rises above 37 degrees C?
The sympathetic nervous system is activated and sweating is induced, heat is lost by evaporation
Define pyrexia
if core temp exceeds 38 degrees C
pyrexia increases pulse and resp rate, which could lead to…
brain dysfunction, coma, cardiac collapse, death
define hypothermia
if core temp falls below 33 degrees C
hypothermia can result in…
fatigue, unconsciousness, uncoordinated muscle activity
List factors that affect body temo
time of day ovulation menstrual cycle digestion metabolic rate hot baths fever alcohol exercise arousal
Pregnant women often have increased blood flow to the extremities, such as..
warm hands and feet
Basal metabolic rate is raised in pregnancy, by how much?
0.5 degrees C
What can happen is maternal temperature is elevated
foetus compromised
Name the 5 sites of temperature recording
oral cavity tympanic membrane (ear) axilla (armpit) skin/forehead rectum
