Should we pay attention to keeping warm during physical examinations in low-temperature weather

It is usually necessary to pay attention to keeping warm during physical examinations in low-temperature weather. If the body temperature is too low during the physical examination process, it may affect the accuracy of some examination results and may also induce discomfort from catching a cold. Routine physical examination items such as blood pressure measurement and electrocardiogram examination are easily affected by cold environments. Low temperature may cause vasoconstriction, leading to elevated blood pressure readings. Low skin temperature during electrocardiogram monitoring may interfere with electrode conduction efficiency. Cold limbs during blood tests may cause temporary changes in blood composition. Adding clothing or using warm patches to maintain body temperature before physical examination can help reduce errors. Physical examination institutions generally maintain a constant temperature indoors, but windproof jackets are still required when going out.

In special circumstances, it is necessary to strengthen insulation measures. When conducting thyroid ultrasound and other examinations that require exposure of the neck, a scarf can be used to keep warm in advance, and the examination gap should be covered in a timely manner. It is recommended for elderly or chronic disease patients to bring a thermos and drink warm water during physical examinations. The peripheral circulation of diabetes patients is poor, so special attention should be paid to keeping hands and feet warm. Infants and young children should wear jumpsuits during physical examinations to avoid catching a cold in the abdomen. Long term outdoor physical examination items such as lung function testing are recommended to be adjusted for warmth in batches. After the physical examination, it is recommended to drink hot drinks such as ginger tea to promote blood circulation and avoid immediate exposure to extreme temperature differences. Patients with chronic respiratory diseases need to wear masks throughout the physical examination to reduce cold air irritation. When interpreting the physical examination report, the doctor should be informed of the ambient temperature at that time. If there are symptoms of hypothermia such as chills and cyanosis of the lips during the physical examination, the examination should be immediately suspended and medical assistance should be sought.