User and Technical Manual: HotDog Temperature Management Controller
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surgical supports. The cleaning steps are general recommendations and are not meant to replace hospital-specific
cleaning protocols.
1.
Avoid getting cleaning fluids into the electrical connector.
2.
If visible body fluids or soiling are present, these must be removed before applying a disinfectant. Scrub
the areas using detergent and a soft brush or sponge to remove any organic matter. Wipe the surface of the
Warming Device with water using a dampened cloth. Do not immerse blankets in liquids.
3.
Apply a low- or intermediate-level disinfectant to the entire Device by spraying or wiping. Follow the
disinfectant manufacturer's application instructions to ensure adequate disinfection.
4.
Following cleaning, ensure that the Device is dry before using again.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.
How does HotDog work?
Blankets and Mattresses use a conductive polymer fabric called ThermAssure.
A low voltage DC current flows over this light, flexible fabric, and the resistance generates even warmth.
Blankets and Mattresses do not use carbon fiber or ink, which could break and create hot spots.
2.
Why is HotDog safe?
The Controller is really a microprocessor with many built-in safety features. It
monitors connected Warming Devices at the patient and will automatically stop operation if readings are
out of safe parameters. The Blankets and Mattresses use a low-voltage floating isolated DC current to
warm. The flexible conductive polymer fabric generates uniform heat with no hot spots.
3.
Are the Blankets and Mattresses difficult to clean?
The cleaning process takes 30 seconds or less. The
Warming Devices can be cleaned in the OR by wiping with a low- to intermediate-level disinfectant. Do
not use with cleaners that contain hydrogen peroxide. The Warming Devices are designed for easy
cleaning. The non-porous outer shell contains an anti-microbial and the edges are heat-sealed to eliminate
crevices. The CDC says noncritical items like HotDog Blankets and Mattresses are safe and present
virtually no risk of cross-contamination.
4.
Is there a greater risk of cross-contamination with reusable HotDog Blankets and Mattresses than
with disposable FAW?
No. The Warming Devices are considered "non-critical items," meaning they only
come in contact with intact skin. According to the CDC, "Virtually no risk has been documented for
transmission of infectious agents to patients through noncritical items..." The risk of contamination may
actually be greater with FAW. FAW is only partially disposable. The blower and hose are used with
thousands of different patients, sometimes moving from one OR to another. One published study showed
that 92% of FAW blowers are contaminated with bacteria, and 58% internally generated and emitted germ-
sized particles (Albrecht, AJIC, 2011). The contamination is significant because high-velocity air blows
across the germ colonies. The contaminated hot air vents under the drapes, mixes with "dirty" floor air and
rises into the sterile field.
5.
How is HotDog safer for orthopedic surgeries?
Air-free HotDog patient warming is safer for surgeries
involving implanted foreign materials—such as orthopedic and cardiac surgery—because there is no waste
heat disrupting the sterile field with contaminants. Rising waste heat from forced-air warming
contaminates the sterile surgical field above the table with dirty air from the floor by generating convection
currents. There is a large body of peer-reviewed evidence published on this issue.
6.
How do I get the best warming results?
BODY SURFACE AREA: Warm as much surface area as
possible. Warming the core is more effective than the periphery. EARLY START: Start warming as soon
as the patient arrives in the OR. SENSOR CONTACT: Ensure that the sensor is in contact with the patient.
THIN BARRIER: Use the thinnest barrier possible between the patient and the Warming Blankets or
Mattress.
