Use of infrared emission detection thermometer in Chinese neonates.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the reproducibility of Thermoscan, an infrared emission detection ear thermometer, and to establish the normal reference range of ear temperature in Chinese neonates.


METHODS
Neonates were recruited from the inpatients population with exclusion of those suffering from infections.


RESULTS
Forty-nine neonates were recruited with 1,115 temperature taking sessions. Mean left ear temperature was 36.64 degrees C +/- 0.35 degree C. Mean right ear temperature was 36.64 degrees C +/- 0.37 degree C. Clinical repeatability for left and right ear was 0.17 degree C and 0.17 degree C, respectively.


CONCLUSIONS
Thermoscan produced reproducible results in Chinese neonates. The normal range of ear temperature for Chinese neonates is 35 degrees C to 37 degrees C. Ear temperature > 37.8 degrees C should be regarded as fever.
Ng
D K
DK
Department of Pediatrics, Kwong Wah Hospital, 25 Waterloo Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China.
Liu
Y S
YS
Ho
J C
JC
D044466:Asian People; D001831:Body Temperature; D004431:Ear, External; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007259:Infrared Rays; D012016:Reference Values; D013821:Thermometers