Are your temperature measurements as accurate as they can be? Tympanic temperature measurement uses a noncontact infrared measurement to detect the energy emitted from the ear and should be obtained after inspecting the lens and using a proper seal. Lawson and colleagues compare a variety of noninva-sive temperature measurements.
Temporal artery temperature measurement is used to provide a measure of core temperature; radiant heat loss through the skin is accounted for by simultaneous measurement of ambient temperature.
Diaphoresis can affect measurement accuracy and is controlled for by using measurement behind the ear, an area less affected by diaphoresis.
A combined method of forehead plus behind the ear measurement is recommended for all patients.
See Article, pp 485–496
Disease management programs (DMPs) have long been promoted as a major medical cost-saving mechanism, although research on the topic shows conflicting results....