Comparative accuracy testing of non-contact infrared thermometers and temporal artery thermometers in an adult hospital setting.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: NCIT are non-invasive devices for fever screening in children. However, evidence of their accuracy for fever screening in adults is lacking. This study aimed to compare the accuracy of non-contact infrared thermometers (NCIT) with temporal artery thermometers (TAT) in an adult hospital. METHODS: A prospective observational study was conducted on a convenience sample of non-infectious inpatients in 2 Australian hospitals. NCIT and TAT devices were used to collect body temperature recordings. Participant characteristics included age, gender, skin color, highest temperature, and antipyretic medications recorded in last 24-hour. RESULTS: In 265 patients, a mean difference of ± 0.26°C..