BAPM has been made aware of a safety issue with regard to transwarmer mattresses.
Although transwarmer mattresses are frequently used in neonatal resuscitation to reduce hypothermia, manufacturers state that these mattresses should not be used in conjunction with other heat sources due to a potential but rare risk of severe burns. The BAPM wishes to draw attention to this warning.
Where units choose to continue to use transwarmers in conjunction with radiant heat to prevent newborn hypothermia, strict vigilance must be given to ensuring skin integrity, avoiding hyperthermia by continuous temperature monitoring and limiting duration of use.