Information for the public

About this information

NICE guidelines provide advice on the care and support that should be offered to people who use health and care services.

This information explains the advice about keeping patients warm before, during and after an operation that is set out in NICE guideline CG65.

Information about caring for patients with communication difficulties and keeping patients warm before they have their anaesthetic was added in 2016.

Does this information apply to me?

Yes, if you are an adult who is having a planned or emergency operation in hospital under anaesthetic (except where this is a local anaesthetic).

No, if you:

  • are a child or young person under 18

  • are pregnant

  • are being deliberately kept cold during your operation for medical reasons

  • have severe head injuries.