The Value of Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer in Measuring Temperatures of Different Body Surfaces: A Clinical Diagnostic Study

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the optimal cutoff value for fever based on temperature measurements of different body surfaces using a non-contact infrared thermometer. Methods: A total of 229 participants were conveniently sampled for this clinical diagnostic study. Oral temperature was measured using a mercury thermometer, while the temperatures of the forehead, neck, and wrists were measured using a non-contact infrared thermometer. The differences and linear relationships between the temperature measurements of different body surfaces and oral temperature were analyzed using statistical methods. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed to determine the optimal cutoff values for fever on the forehead, neck, and wrists. Results: The optimal cutoff values for fever on the neck, forehead, and wrists were 37.1°C, 36.9°C, and 36.8°C, respectively, as measured by the non-contact infrared thermometer. Conclusion: The non-contact infrared thermometer is a reliable tool for measuring body surface temperatures. The optimal cutoff values for fever using a non-contact infrared thermometer are 37.1°C for the neck, 36.9°C for the forehead, and 36.8°C for the wrists.