What is the typical operating room temperature range in Fahrenheit?

• A. 72-78°F
• B. 60-65°F
• C. 68-73°F
• D. 70-75°F

Answer: (C)

Maintaining an ambient temperature in the operating room is chosen to protect the patient from heat loss during anesthesia while keeping staff comfortable. When a patient is under anesthesia, the body’s ability to regulate temperature is diminished, so the room’s temperature significantly influences core temperature. A range around the mid-60s to low-70s Fahrenheit provides a balance: it helps minimize hypothermia and shivering in the patient, which can reduce blood loss and infection risk, yet is comfortable enough for the surgical team and prevents overheating from equipment and lights. This window is commonly used in many facilities as a practical standard in the OR.

Ranging toward cooler temperatures (60-65°F) would be too cold for many patients and staff, increasing risks of hypothermia and discomfort. Warmer ranges (72-78°F or 70-75°F) are less common as the default because they can reduce the room’s effectiveness in offsetting the patient’s heat loss and may contribute to fatigue or discomfort for staff over long procedures.