Use of infrared emission detection thermometer in Chinese neonates

Objective To evaluate the reproducibility Thermoscan(TM), an infrared emiss ion 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 exclusi on of those suffering from infections. Results Forty-nine neonates were recruited with 1 115 temperature taking se ssions. Mean left ear temperature was 36.64 degrees C +/- 0.35 degrees C. M ean right ear temperature was 36.64 degrees C +/- 0.37 degrees C. Clinical repeatability for left and right ear was 0.17 degrees C and 0.17 degrees C, respectively. Conclusion Thermoscan produced reproducible results in Chinese neonates. Th e normal range of ear temperature for Chinese neonates is 35 degrees C to 3 7 degrees C. Ear temperature > 37.8 degrees C should be regarded as fever.