Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 21, 2026
A Piglet Model of Neonatal Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy
Published on: May 16, 2015
Neonatal thermal care, part III: The effect of infant position and temperature probe placement
S Blackburn1, D DePaul, L A Loan
1Department of Family and Child Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle 98198-7262, USA.
Purpose:
Accurate management of infant temperature requires appropriate placement of temperature monitoring probes. Currently, there is a lack of consensus regarding placement of skin temperature probes and the effect on temperature monitoring of the infant's lying on the probe. The objective of this study was to compare abdomen and back skin temperatures when infants were positioned supine and prone.
Design:
A quasi-experimental design was used to randomize infants to prone or supine position. Infant back, abdomen, and axillary temperatures were measured at one-minute intervals with small disposable thermocouples over a one-hour period.
Sample:
Twenty-three infants, weight 820-2,400 gm, gestational age 27-37 weeks, postnatal age three to ten days.
Main Outcome Variable:
Gradient between abdomen and back temperature.
Results:
Both mean abdomen and mean back temperatures differed significantly by position (t-test, p = .003 and .028, respectively). Weight and postnatal age did not have an effect on the mean difference between abdomen and back temperature. Results indicate that probe placement and infant positioning are important factors altering measurement of skin temperature.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Decreased Body Temperature
01:14Temperature 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...
01:14Assessing 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...
01:27Assessing Body Temperature - Rectal
Follow these steps for rectal temperature assessment:
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and don clean gloves to prevent cross-infection.
Step 2: Position the patient in a side-lying position to better visualize the rectal...
01:14Assessing 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...
01:19Assessing 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...