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Is tympanic membrane thermometry the best method for recording temperature in children?

Paula L Dew1

  • 1Children's Hospital at Home (CHAH) Team, George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust, Nuneaton, UK. paula.dew@geh.nhs.uk

Journal of Child Health Care : for Professionals Working with Children in the Hospital and Community
|May 19, 2006
PubMed

Insights

This review examines research on tympanic membrane thermometers for children in acute care. It assesses accuracy, comparisons, and influences like patient preference and ear conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric healthcare
  • Medical device evaluation
  • Clinical thermometry

Background:

  • Tympanic membrane thermometry is increasingly used for pediatric temperature measurement.
  • Concerns exist regarding the accuracy of tympanic membrane thermometers.
  • Research comparing tympanic membrane thermometers with other body site measurements is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the most appropriate, research-based thermometry method for children in acute healthcare settings.
  • To evaluate factors influencing thermometer choice, including patient and nurse preferences, and specific pediatric conditions.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of research-based evidence on thermometry methods for children.
  • Analysis of factors affecting thermometer selection and accuracy.
  • Consideration of patient preferences and ethical aspects, such as children's rights.

Main Results:

  • The review addresses concerns about tympanic membrane thermometer accuracy.
  • It explores the appropriateness of comparing tympanic membrane temperatures with other sites.
  • Influential factors like age, ear conditions (otitis media, wax, pain, grommets), and preferences are discussed.

Conclusions:

  • Evidence-based recommendations for selecting the most appropriate thermometry method for children in acute care are needed.
  • Further research should address patient preferences and ethical considerations, particularly concerning rectal thermometry and children's rights.

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