Touchless Thermometor technology has advanced thanks to COVID-19

Contactless Thermometers: How to Choose One

Introduction

The recent increase in prevalence of COVID-19, also known as SARS-CoV-2, provides the opportunity for innovative technological changes to be implemented in our day-to-day tasks in order to ensure a safe and comfortable environment. Recent implementations of state laws regarding wearing masks in public are one of many essential tasks to uphold as citizens and particularly for healthcare professionals. One particular change for society is the use of thermometers. One of the most common symptoms associated with COVID-19 is a fever, which is typically experienced by the patient within 2-14 days after the exposure. 

Thermometers are used to measure the body temperature. A normal body temperature is 98.6°F and anything above this particular temperature indicates fever. Therefore, in the current outbreak of COVID-19, thermometers play a vital role in diagnosing and screening the individuals who might be exposed to COVID-19. This article discusses the innovative practice of using non-contact thermometers.

Contactless Thermometers

The infamous contactless infrared thermometers have built in optical sensors that can detect the infrared radiation emitted by the hot objects from a distance. The most common types are non-contact infrared thermometers (NCIT), tympanic thermometers, and thermal scanners.

Non-contact Infrared Thermometers (NCIT):

These thermometers can measure the temperature of a person on the forehead or temple up to 15 cm away. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and instructions for use for the specific NCIT. 

Pros:

  • Non-contact approach prevents the risk of spreading infection between people
  • Easy to use and clean
  • Can obtain a reading quickly

Cons:

  • The person taking the temperature still has to stand close to the person being evaluated for fever to take temperature accurately
  • Should be used in draft free area, away from sunlight and in an area with humidity below 85%

Digital ear or tympanic thermometers: 

They utilize infrared ray to record temperature inside the ear canal.

Pros:

  • Children are most comfortable with this kind of thermometer

Cons:

  • They are not recommended for infants less than 6 months old
  • The accuracy of the temperature can be affected by ear wax
  • Plastic caps need to be bought regularly with these thermometers which make them costly
  • The measurement error is ± 0.2 ° C hence they are less accurate as compared to other devices

Selection of a best non-contact thermometer:

 With so many thermometers available in the market it becomes overwhelming to select a product that you want in your medicine cabinet. So, there are some features that can be taken into consideration while making the best choice.

  • Light Indicator:

Many digital thermometers come equipped with LCD display that have color coded backlights that makes it easier to interpret the temperature. For example if a person is running a high fever then backlights change color.

  • Sound Indicator:

Its main function is to let the person know that the temperature reading is done successfully while beeping. In case of an error e.g. incorrectly handling the thermometer, the sound indicator will emit a different sound.

  • Price:

Price can play an important role in the selection of a thermometer. Some thermometers require batteries, and these will cost less but they are not long lasting. On the other hand there are rechargeable thermometers that have built in battery units costing more but last for longer periods of time.

  • Memory Recall:

Memory recall feature makes it easier to record the temperature readings without having to write them down. Some devices can store up to 50 readings.

  • Consumer reviews:

Consumer reviews from various companies can also influence the decision of a consumer while selecting a product. Here are two links from comparison lab and business insider comparing various digital thermometers and their reviews.

  1. https://www.businessinsider.com/best-thermometer
  2. https://comparisonlab.com/14-best-forehead-thermometers/

References:

  1. Advantages of Contact Thermometers over Non-Contact/Infrared Thermometers. (2020). Retrieved 5 June 2020, from https://www.tegam.com/advantages-of-contact-thermometers-over-non-contactinfrared-thermometers/
  2. https://www.cvs.com/bizcontent/merchandising/productimages/large/328785730005.jpg
  3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/in-depth/thermometers/art-20046737
  4. https://www.natlawreview.com/article/temperature-screening-new-guidance-cdc-faqs-and-best-practices
  5. Figure 2. https://www.henryschein.com/us-en/Global.aspx
  6. https://synappsehealth.com/en/articles/i/types-of-thermometers-and-their-application/
  7. https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/general-hospital-devices-and-supplies/non-contact-infrared-thermometers
  8. https://comparisonlab.com/14-best-forehead-thermometers/
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