The factors that have a role in variability for temperature

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Medical Thermometry
• Clinical Research

Background:

• Accurate temperature measurement is crucial in pediatric care.
• Variations in temperature readings can occur between different thermometer types (digital vs. mercury-in-glass) and measurement sites (rectal vs. axillary).
• Factors influencing these temperature differences require investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine factors affecting rectal-axillary temperature measurement difference (RATD).
• To compare temperature readings between digital and mercury-in-glass thermometers using rectal and axillary routes.
• To identify patient characteristics and environmental factors influencing temperature measurement accuracy.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 135 children aged 2-48 months admitted to two hospitals.
• Two temperature measurements taken per patient within 2 days, considering day/night and sleep/awake states.
• Comparison of rectal-axillary temperature differences using digital and mercury-in-glass thermometers.

Main Results:

• Rectal-axillary temperature measurement difference (RATD) was 0.61 ± 0.54°C for mercury-in-glass and 0.81 ± 0.57°C for digital thermometers.
• Mean differences between digital and mercury-in-glass thermometers were 0.16°C (rectal) and -0.02°C (axillary).
• Older age, hypoalbuminemia, and higher ambient temperatures were associated with lower RATD.

Conclusions:

• Individual characteristics and ambient temperature influence temperature recordings from different sites.
• Understanding these factors is essential for accurate fever detection in children.
• Further research may refine pediatric thermometry guidelines.