Current practice and knowledge of nurses regarding patient temperature measurement

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Abstract
The measurement of patient temperature by nursing staff is a common activity. In recent years this area of practice has been largely under-investigated despite the introduction of new technologies into clinical practice, such as infrared tympanic thermometry (IRTT). To investigate current practice in clinical temperature measurement in general, and the use of IRTT in particular by nursing staff. 139 nursing staff from a general hospital in the UK were surveyed via a self-administered questionnaire. The group most involved in temperature measurement was characterized as nursing auxiliary grades with the fewest years of experience. IRTT was the most frequently-used method for measuring patient temperatures, with high perceived accuracy, reliability, ease of use and acceptability to patients. A poor level of understanding and training in the use of IRTT was revealed across all clinical grades. Recommendations for future investigations are made.