What should the surgical tech do if the operating room temperature is set at 66 and the humidity is 35%?

In a surgical setting, maintaining appropriate temperature and humidity levels is crucial for patient safety, infection control, and the effectiveness of surgical procedures. An operating room temperature of 66°F is typically considered too low for optimal conditions, which can lead to hypothermia in patients. The recommended range for operating room temperatures is usually between 68°F and 75°F.

Leaving the humidity unchanged at 35% may not provide sufficient moisture for the environment, as humidity levels in surgical rooms are ideally kept between 30% and 60%. This level helps to prevent the growth of bacteria and supports appropriate skin temperature.

By increasing the temperature while leaving humidity as is, the surgical tech can help ensure that the operating room environment becomes more comfortable for the patient and conducive to the procedure, ultimately promoting better surgical outcomes.