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Temperature measurement in pediatrics: a comparison of the rectal method versus the temporal artery method

Jessica Bahorski1, Terri Repasky, Donna Ranner

  • 1Pediatrics Department, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, Inc., Tallahassee, FL, USA.

Journal of Pediatric Nursing
|April 25, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Temporal artery temperature (TAT) devices showed no significant difference from rectal temperature (RT) measurements in pediatric patients. This study compared two electronic thermometers in children aged 3-36 months.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Clinical Thermometry

Background:

  • Accurate temperature measurement is crucial in pediatric care.
  • Electronic thermometers offer potential advantages in speed and ease of use.
  • Comparing different measurement sites and devices is essential for clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare temperature readings from temporal artery temperature (TAT) devices and rectal temperature (RT) measurements.
  • To evaluate the accuracy and reliability of TAT devices in pediatric patients.
  • To determine if significant differences exist between TAT and RT measurements in young children.

Main Methods:

  • A comparative single-group design was employed.
  • 47 pediatric patients aged 3 to 36 months participated.
  • Each participant served as their own control for temperature device comparison.

Main Results:

  • No statistically significant differences were found between TAT and RT measurements.
  • Both electronic temperature devices yielded comparable results in the study population.
  • The study highlights the need to consider clinical significance alongside statistical significance.

Conclusions:

  • Temporal artery temperature devices appear to provide readings comparable to rectal temperature measurements in pediatric patients.
  • Further research may be warranted to explore clinical implications and broader applicability.
  • The findings suggest TAT devices may be a viable alternative for temperature assessment in this age group.

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