Use of infrared emission detection thermometer in Chinese neonates

To evaluate the reproducibility of Thermoscan, an infrared emission detection ear thermometer, and to establish the normal reference range of ear temperature in Chinese neonates.Neonates were recruited from the inpatients population with exclusion of those suffering from infections.Forty-nine neonates were recruited with 1,115 temperature taking sessions. Mean left ear temperature was 36.64 degrees C +/- 0.35 degree C. Mean right ear temperature was 36.64 degrees C +/- 0.37 degree C. Clinical repeatability for left and right ear was 0.17 degree C and 0.17 degree C, respectively.Thermoscan produced reproducible results in Chinese neonates. The normal range of ear temperature for Chinese neonates is 35 degrees C to 37 degrees C. Ear temperature37.8 degrees C should be regarded as fever.