Body Temperature: Physiology, Measurement, and Clinical Applications Body Temperature: Regulation, Assessment, and Nursing Interventions Essential Notes on Body Temperature for Nursing and Paramedics Body Temperature: A Detailed Study on Regulation, Alterations, and Treatment
Body Temperature 1. Physiology of Body Temperature Body temperature is the balance between heat production and heat loss. The normal body temperature is 36.5°C to 37.5°C (97.7°F to 99.5°F) . The hypothalamus (in the brain) acts as the body's thermoregulatory center . Heat is produced by metabolism, muscle activity, and hormonal influences . Heat is lost through radiation, conduction, convection, and evaporation . 2. Regulation of Body Temperature The hypothalamus regulates body temperature through: Heat production Shivering : Increases muscle activity to generate heat. Metabolic rate increase : Thyroid hormones and adrenaline raise metabolism. Heat loss Sweating : Cools the body through evaporation. Vasodilation : Blood vessels widen to release heat. Breathing : Warm air is expelled, helping in heat loss. Behavioral control Wearing warm or light clothes depending on temperature. Moving to warmer or cooler places. 3. Factors Affecting Bo...