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Published on: January 23, 2017
Infrared transtympanic temperature measurement and otitis media with effusion
1Department of Otolaryngology, Epsom & St. Helier NHS Trust, Epsom General Hospital, KT18 7EG, Epsom, UK. robb@uk-consultants.co.uk
Abstract:
Body temperature is an important clinical measurement. It can be estimated by sublingual, rectal, axillary or skin measurement. Pulmonary artery temperature measurement is the gold standard in the research setting, but is obviously inapplicable for routine clinical use. Infrared estimation of core temperature at the tympanic membrane has been proposed as an effective and accurate method. We investigate whether the common condition of childhood otitis media with effusion (OME) interferes with this mode of body temperature measurement. Ninety-five children undergoing grommet tube insertion were assessed preoperatively by axillary and transtympanic routes. The presence or absence of middle ear fluid was noted at the time of surgery. Analysis of the data showed no influence of OME on the measurement of body temperature by the transtympanic route compared with axillary measurement.
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Equipments Used to Measure Body Temperature
Glass-bulb Thermometer:
Glass-bulb thermometers are hollow glass tubes with a bulb tip containing liquid such as ethanol or mercury. Historically, glass bulb mercury thermometers were the standard device to measure body temperature. Today, mercury thermometers are prohibited in many countries due to the hazardous effects of mercury and the risk of exposure if the glass bulb breaks. In general,...
Temperature Measurement Sites
Oral: When assessing oral temperature, the thermometer tip should be placed under the tongue in the posterior sublingual pocket. It offers accurate readings and can be...
Assessing Body Temperature - Tympanic membrane
Step 1: Begin by practicing good hand hygiene to prevent the transmission of microorganisms.
Step 2: Turn on the thermometer and wait until the ready sign appears on the screen to ensure accurate measurement.
Step 3: Slide the probe cover in place to prevent cross-contamination.
Step 4: Instruct the patient to tilt their head to the side for comfort and check for cerumen...
Assessing Body Temperature - Oral
Step 1:
Start by practicing proper hand hygiene to prevent the spread of microorganisms.
Step 2:
Take the thermometer out of the charging unit, switch it on, and wait for the ready sign.
Step 3:
Gently slide the probe cover until a click is heard. This simple action prevents cross-contamination and ensures the correct placement of the probe cover.
Step 4:
Instruct the patient to open their mouth and place...
Assessing Body Temperature - Axilla
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and put on clean gloves to maintain infection control and prevent cross-contamination.
Step 2: Prepare the patient by explaining the procedure to ensure understanding and cooperation. Ensure privacy, expose the axilla, and inform the patient that minimal movement is crucial for an accurate reading.
Step 3: Adjust the patient’s clothing to expose only the axilla. It minimizes...
Assessing Body Temperature - Temporal Artery
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and don a fresh pair of gloves to prevent cross-infection and ensure patient safety.
Step 2: Explain the procedure to the patient to establish trust. Clear communication establishes trust with the patient, ensures they understand what to expect, promotes cooperation, and enhances comfort during the procedure.
Step 3: Assess the patient's forehead...

