The hazards of thermoregulatory shivering in the critically ill are often overlooked by caregivers. Shivering may accompany heat loss from bathing, dressing, transport, and many therapeutic activities. Febrile shivering is common during chills of fever, blood product transfusions, administration of antigenic drugs, and chemotherapy. Many patients are at risk for shivering and its negative consequences that increase oxygen expenditure and cardiorespiratory effort. Learning how underlying thermoregulatory mechanisms are involved in shivering clarifies how temperature gradients and environmental stimuli induce the shivering response. Knowledge of the anatomical progression of shivering equips the nurse to recognize or prevent this energy-consuming response. This article discusses measures to prevent shivering as well as evidence-based interventions to manage shivering during fever, aggressive cooling, and postoperative recovery. Detailed information is presented on assessment and documentation of the extent and severity of shivering.
Skip Nav Destination
Article navigation
1 April 2004
Thermoregulation|
April 01 2004
Shivering in Acutely Ill Vulnerable Populations
Barbara J. Holtzclaw, PhD, RN, FAAN
From the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.
Reprint requests to: Barbara J. Holtzclaw, PhD, RN, FAAN, 4009 Harrogate Dr, Norman, OK 73072 ([email protected]).
Search for other works by this author on:
AACN Adv Crit Care (2004) 15 (2): 267–279.
Citation
Barbara J. Holtzclaw; Shivering in Acutely Ill Vulnerable Populations. AACN Adv Crit Care 1 April 2004; 15 (2): 267–279. doi:
Download citation file:
Sign in
Don't already have an account? Register
Short-term Access
Purchase short-term access on a pay-per-article or pay-per-issue basis.
$15 72 - hour single article access $30 7 - day full issue access
5
Views