What is the optimum theatre room temperature range?

• A. 20-24
• B. 16-20
• C. 22-26
• D. 18-22

Answer: (D)

Maintaining normothermia during anaesthesia relies on a moderate theatre temperature to limit heat loss from the patient. Under anaesthesia, animals can’t regulate their body temperature well, and the exposed surgical field plus drapes cause heat to escape by convection, radiation, and evaporation. If the room is too cool, the patient cools rapidly, increasing risks such as hypothermia, slower recovery, and poorer wound healing. If the room is too warm, the patient may overheat and staff may become uncomfortable, and the sterile field can be harder to manage.

A middle-ground range around 18-22°C provides enough warmth to reduce rapid heat loss while avoiding excessive heat that could disrupt comfort or the sterile environment. This balance is why 18-22°C is considered optimum for theatre rooms.