4
IV.OPERATING PRINCPLE
All objects, solid, liquid or gas, emit energy by radiation. The intensity of
this energy depends on the temperature of the object. The
SantaMedical
RY210
Non-contact infrared thermometer is therefore able to measure
the temperature of a person by the energy the person emits. This
measurement can be taken thanks to an external temperature probe on
the device which permanently analyses and registers the ambient
temperature. Therefore, as soon as the operator holds the thermometer
near the body and activates the radiation sensor, the measurement is
taken instantly by detection of the infrared heat generated by the
arterial blood flow. Body heat can therefore be measured without any
interference from the heat of the surrounding environment.
THE DIFFERENT METHODS OF TEMPERATURE MEASUREMENT
Core temperature
Core temperature is the most precise measurement and involves
measuring the temperature in the pulmonary artery by means of a
catheter equipped with a thermal probe which can read the temperature
in situ. The same method is employed for probes measuring the
oesophageal temperature. However, such invasive temperature
measurement methods require specific equipment and expertise.
Rectal thermometry
Rectal temperature adjusts slowly in comparison to the evolution of the
body’s internal temperature. It has been demonstrated that rectal
temperature remains raised long after the internal temperature of the
patient has started to drop and vice versa. Furthermore, rectal
perforations have been known to occur as a result of this method and
without appropriate sterilization techniques, rectal thermometry can
spread germs often found in Faeces.
Oral thermometry
Oral temperature is easily influenced by recent ingestion of food or
drinks and by breathing through the mouth. To measure oral
temperature, the mouth must remain closed and the tongue lowered for
three to four minutes which is a difficult task for young children to
accomplish.
