A comparison of noninvasive body temperature monitoring devices in the PACU

Critical measurement of patient body temperature in the PACU is an important parameter in patient management. Failure to achieve minimal acceptable body temperature standards has been associated with physiological derangement, the application of additional therapy, and prolonged PACU stays. Newer methods to monitor temperature have been introduced into the PACU that have been touted to be adequate for detecting clinically significant changes in temperature. This study compares skin core temperature-corrected liquid crystal thermography, axillary electronic, and oral electronic thermistor readings with temperatures obtained by infrared tympanic membrane thermometry in 215 PACU patients. Regression analysis suggests that when compared with tympanic temperature, the oral method is more accurate and has greater precision than either the liquid crystal or axillary methods. That the incidence of hypothermia depends on the method chosen to assess body temperature is a significant nursing implication.