Tympanic membrane thermometry has become increasingly popular for measuring
temperature in children. The aim of this review is to ascertain the most
appropriate, research-based thermometry method for use with children in acute
healthcare settings. The following are considered:
• Concerns regarding the accuracy of the tympanic membrane thermometer.
• Whether comparison of the tympanic membrane thermometer with temperature
measurement at other body sites is appropriate.
• How choice of thermometer may be influenced by children's and
nurses' preferences, technique, the age of the child, ear size and children
with otitis media, perforated eardrums, cerumen (ear wax), ear pain or grommets in-situ.
• Children's preferences and rectal thermometry in relation to
children's rights, which have not been reviewed so far.
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