What temperature range does Targeted Temperature Management aim for?

What temperature range does Targeted Temperature Management aim for?

• A. 32 to 36 degrees C
• B. 28 to 32 degrees C
• C. 36 to 40 degrees C
• D. 40 to 44 degrees C

Answer: (A)

Targeted Temperature Management aims to protect the brain after cardiac arrest by keeping the patient’s core temperature within a controlled, safe range. The best target is 32 to 36°C because this window lowers the brain’s metabolic needs and limits injury from reperfusion without introducing the risks seen with deeper cooling or with fever. Maintaining this range for about 24 hours, then rewarming gradually, provides neuroprotection while minimizing complications like arrhythmias or coagulopathy. Choices that are colder, warmer, or feverish do not offer the same balance of safety and neurological protection.

Targeted Temperature Management aims to protect the brain after cardiac arrest by keeping the patient’s core temperature within a controlled, safe range. The best target is 32 to 36°C because this window lowers the brain’s metabolic needs and limits injury from reperfusion without introducing the risks seen with deeper cooling or with fever. Maintaining this range for about 24 hours, then rewarming gradually, provides neuroprotection while minimizing complications like arrhythmias or coagulopathy. Choices that are colder, warmer, or feverish do not offer the same balance of safety and neurological protection.