Which of the following is NOT recommended to minimize hypothermia in patients?

To minimize hypothermia in patients, it is crucial to protect their body heat, especially during surgical procedures. Shaving a large area increases skin exposure and can lead to greater heat loss, as the bare skin is more susceptible to the cooling effects of the environment. This is why increasing the area to be shaved is not recommended.

In contrast, using the minimum amount of skin disinfectant is beneficial because some disinfectants can have a cooling effect when applied to the skin. Placing the animal on a warming pad is a common and effective method to maintain body temperature, providing direct heat. Covering the animal with plastic is also a method used to create a barrier that conserves heat and prevents moisture loss.

Thus, the best approach to prevent hypothermia involves minimizing the exposed surface area rather than increasing it, which is why increasing the area to be shaved is not a recommended practice.