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Use of thermometers in general practice
1The Surgery, Camberley, Surrey.
BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.)
|April 11, 1992
Summary
General practitioners show varied thermometer use, with many using mercury glass thermometers incorrectly or infrequently. This highlights a need for improved practices in general practice temperature measurement.
Area of Science:
- General Practice
- Medical Devices
- Infection Control
Background:
- Accurate patient temperature measurement is crucial in general practice.
- Understanding healthcare professionals' attitudes towards thermometer use is essential for effective clinical practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the attitudes and practices of general practitioners (GPs) regarding thermometer utilization in primary care settings.
- To identify common methods and frequency of thermometer use among GPs.
Main Methods:
- A postal questionnaire survey was distributed to general practitioners.
- The survey targeted 145 GPs within the Frimley Park Hospital catchment area.
- Data collected focused on various aspects of thermometer use in daily practice.
Main Results:
- A response rate of 80% (116 GPs) was achieved.
- Significant variation in thermometer use was observed: 7 GPs lacked temperature-taking methods, and 56 used thermometers infrequently.
- Mercury glass thermometers were most common (69%), yet only 8% of users demonstrated correct technique; improper cleaning was also noted in 6 instances.
Conclusions:
- There is considerable diversity in general practitioners' attitudes and practices concerning thermometer use.
- The findings suggest potential deficiencies in thermometer usage, including correct handling and cleaning protocols, within general practice.