Clinical evaluation of a new infrared tympanic thermometer ”TH 700” by Rowenta or “Thermo sense” by Calor

In order to evaluate the accuracy of a new infrared tympanic thermometer (ITT) TH 700 Rowenta or Thermo Sense CALOR for core temperature monitoring, rectal (Tre) and infrared tympanic temperature (Tty) have been recorded in all present inpatients of a general hospital, in 91.7% of patients, consistent results in Tty vs. Tre could be obtained (temperature range: 35.5 to 39.7°C). When both right and left ears were explored, and then the highest value of Tty (TtyMax) was retained for records, no significant difference was found between mean (±S.E.) Tre (36.83±0.05°C) and TtyMax (36.78±0.05), Detection of maximal Tty was greatly facilitated by the outward orientation of the display screen and the possibility of making several readings within a few seconds while orientating the device into the best position for alignment with the tympanic membrane. Overall correspondence between Tes and Tty as recorded by TH 700 Rowenta or Thermo Sense Color was therefore found suitable for using this ITT in everyday clinical monitoring of core temperature