Non-contact infrared thermometers for measuring temperature in children: primary care diagnostic technology update.

Abstract

Temperature is an important vital sign for assessing acutely unwell children, and is measured frequently in primary care. However, measuring temperature accurately can be challenging. Oral and rectal thermometers are invasive and poorly tolerated, while axillary thermometers require parents or healthcare professionals to undress the child and hold the thermometer in the axilla for 30 seconds or longer. Infrared tympanic thermometers are easier to use, but can be inaccurate due to ear wax or insufficient straightening of the ear canal. Non-contact infrared thermometers (NCITs) are designed to measure temperature rapidly and non-invasively with negligible cross-infection risk. This update compares the accuracy and utility of NCITs with conventional thermometers in children. #### Clinical Question What is the accuracy and utility of non-contact infrared thermometers compared to conventional thermometers in children? Table 1 summarises characteristics of a range of NCITs. Based on a search conducted in December 2013, over 20 models are available for use in community and/or healthcare settings. The Thermofocus and Syner-Med VeraTemp thermometers are FDA approved and CE marked. This report found six studies comparing three NCIT devices (Standard ST 88121, Thermofocus 08002,3 and Thermofocus 015004–6) to conventional thermometers in children. View this table: Table 1. Characteristics of non-contact infrared thermometers NCITs may be used to measure temperature in children presenting with acute illness in primary …