Effect of peripheral i.v. infusion on neonatal axillary temperature measurement

To determine whether axillary temperature in an arm with a peripheral IV infusion (PIVI) is significantly different than in the arm without a PIVI in neonates.

Twenty-nine neonates ranging in Dubowitz gestational age from 27-42 weeks were selected from Level II and III nurseries. Each had a PIVI in place in an upper extremity. Right axillary, left axillary, and rectal temperatures were taken simultaneously.

There was no significant difference between left and right axillary temperatures using a t-test.

Either axilla may be used for temperature measurement regardless of PIVI placement.