What is targeted temperature management (TTM) and its typical target range?

What is targeted temperature management (TTM) and its typical target range?

• A. Maintaining normothermia with no cooling
• B. Cooling to 32-36°C for at least 24 hours with controlled rewarming
• C. Cooling to below 20°C
• D. Using fever management only

Answer: (B)

Targeted temperature management is a brain-protective strategy used after return of spontaneous circulation that keeps the patient’s core temperature within a defined range and limits temperature fluctuations. The typical approach is cooling to 32–36°C for at least 24 hours, with controlled rewarming afterward. This range offers neuroprotection by reducing metabolic demand and limiting reperfusion injury without the risks associated with deeper hypothermia. It’s more than fever control and not the same as simply keeping normothermia with no cooling. Rewarming should be gradual and controlled to prevent hemodynamic instability and electrolyte disturbances.

Targeted temperature management is a brain-protective strategy used after return of spontaneous circulation that keeps the patient’s core temperature within a defined range and limits temperature fluctuations. The typical approach is cooling to 32–36°C for at least 24 hours, with controlled rewarming afterward. This range offers neuroprotection by reducing metabolic demand and limiting reperfusion injury without the risks associated with deeper hypothermia. It’s more than fever control and not the same as simply keeping normothermia with no cooling. Rewarming should be gradual and controlled to prevent hemodynamic instability and electrolyte disturbances.