What does a "normothermic" state refer to in postoperative care?

A "normothermic" state refers to maintaining a body temperature within the normal physiological range, which is typically around 36.1 to 37.2 degrees Celsius (97 to 99 degrees Fahrenheit) for adults. In postoperative care, keeping patients in this normothermic range is crucial because deviations can lead to complications. Hypothermia can increase the risk of wound infections, cardiovascular problems, and prolonged recovery times. Conversely, hyperthermia can indicate infection or other complications. Therefore, ensuring that a patient remains normothermic is essential for optimal recovery and overall health after surgery.

While the other options involve important aspects of postoperative care, such as blood pressure regulation, heart rate stabilization, and wound healing, they do not define the specific term "normothermic." Instead, they contribute to the broader scope of patient monitoring and management following surgical procedures.