An evaluation of a healthy participant laboratory model of epidural hyperthermia: a physiological study.

Background: Hyperthermia complicates 21% of cases of intrapartum epidural analgesia, but the mechanism is unclear. One hypothesis is that blockade of cholinergic sympathetic nerves prevents active vasodilation and sweating, thus limiting heat loss. Because labour increases heat production, this could create a situation in which heat production exceeds loss, causing body temperature to rise.

Heat stress associated with aerosol PPE and its impact.

Background: Aerosol personal protective equipment (PPE) is subjectively reported to negatively impact healthcare workers' performance and well-being, but this has not been assessed objectively.

Aims: This randomized controlled crossover study aimed to quantify the heat stress associated with aerosol PPE and to investigate its impact upon mood, cognitive and motor function, and task performance.

Methods: Sixteen healthy, young, lean participants (eight males) undertook an exercise protocol, which simulated the metabolic expenditure of hospital work: once wearing aerosol PPE (PPE visit) and once wearing standard surgical attire (control visit).