Temperature probe

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Temperature probe

A temperature probe measures a baby's skin temperature. The probe is part of an environmental control system used to help regulate a baby's body temperature.

A small round device is held in place on the surface of a baby's skin. Temperature measurements are transmitted by a long wire to a probe, which also connects to a warmer. Different types of warmers are used, depending on where a baby is lying. Readings from the probe automatically adjust the temperature of a baby's isolette or overhead heater. When a baby's skin temperature is too low, the probe signals a warmer to increase the amount of heat it gives out. A skin temperature that is too high signals the warmer to reduce heat.

These devices are used in a variety of hospital settings, such as delivery rooms, to warm babies immediately after birth and in neonatal intensive care units (NICU).

Credits

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Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

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Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC

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