Axillary and tympanic membrane temperature recording in the preterm neonate: a comparative study

Area of Science:

• Neonatal care
• Pediatric thermoregulation
• Clinical measurement accuracy

Background:

• Preterm neonates have immature thermoregulation, increasing risks of temperature instability, morbidity, and mortality.
• Accurate, minimally invasive temperature monitoring is crucial for preterm infants.
• Tympanic membrane temperature measurement offers a rapid, noninvasive option, but its accuracy in neonates requires validation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare axillary and tympanic membrane temperature recordings in healthy preterm neonates.
• To determine if differences in temperature readings are related to postnatal age.
• To evaluate the clinical implications of any observed temperature discrepancies.

Main Methods:

• A comparative descriptive study design was employed.
• Axillary and tympanic membrane temperatures were recorded consecutively for 7 days in 154 healthy preterm neonates (27-37 weeks gestational age).
• Measurements were taken using a tympanic thermometer and a glass mercury thermometer.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant difference was found, with tympanic membrane temperatures being higher than axillary (P < 0.05).
• This difference was not associated with postnatal age or the presence of vernix.
• The observed temperature differences were not clinically significant, leading to no changes in infant care or treatment.

Conclusions:

• Tympanic membrane temperature measurement is a safe, accurate, and comfortable method for healthy preterm neonates.
• The technique is appropriate for this population, provided staff are adequately trained.
• Findings are not generalizable to sick preterm neonates.