INFRARED EAR THERMOMETRY

Many hospitals are considering using infrared (IR) ear thermometers (also called tympanic membrane thermometers) as an alternative to traditional temperature-measurement devices. IR technology allows users to quickly and noninvasively measure body temperature by inserting a directional probe into the ear canal. For infection control, ear thermometers offer the advantages of not contacting mucous membranes and eliminating the need for special handling procedures. For use on unconscious patients or those who are otherwise unwilling or unable to cooperate with traditional techniques, IR ear thermometers offer a more comfortable and less stressful method of temperature taking for both patients and nurses, especially where rectal temperatures are used. The recent entry into this market by major companies and distributors and the release of several new IR ear thermometers have helped to further stimulate interest in this technology. However, a complete transition to IR ear thermometers throughout the hospital may not be necessary and should be made only after these devices have been successfully used in selected clinical locations, such as emergency departments, critical care areas, recovery areas, and labor and delivery rooms. Clinical users must be familiar with the technique needed for temperature measurement with these instruments and understand the differences between temperatures taken in the ear canal and those obtained from traditional sites. In the following article, we first present an overview of clinical thermometry, describing traditional temperature-measurement sites and devices. We then discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using the ear canal, including the tympanic membrane (TM), as a site for temperature measurement. In addition, we guide readers in determining the usefulness of IR ear thermometers. (For a comprehensive discussion of thermometry and performance criteria for electronic thermometers, see Health Devices 1982 Nov;12[1]:3-20; the issues presented in that evaluation are still valid today.)