Is it Accurate? Should you check the temperature on a temple?

According to a study published in the journal ScienceDirect, the temple region can present a body temperature measurement closer to core temperature than the wrist or forehead during thermal screenings. This makes understanding the correct way to approach the question, "Should you check the temperature on a temple?", crucial for accuracy.

Quick Summary

Using a temporal artery thermometer at the temple can provide a rapid and generally reliable temperature reading, but it is less accurate than rectal or oral methods and external factors can influence the result.

Key Points

• Screening vs. Diagnostic: Temporal readings are best for quick screenings, not for definitive, clinical diagnoses due to their variability.

• Location Matters: Readings at the temple and forehead can differ, and both can be influenced by environmental factors.

• Confirm Inconsistencies: If a temporal reading is unusual or inconsistent, cross-reference it with a more accurate method like an oral or rectal thermometer.

• Follow Instructions Carefully: Proper technique, including wiping sweat and clearing hair, is crucial for obtaining a reliable temporal measurement.

• Best for Convenience: The comfort and speed of temporal readings make them a practical choice for monitoring temperature in children or sleeping individuals, despite their limitations.

• Core vs. Surface Temperature: Temporal thermometers measure surface heat, which is less precise than the core temperature measured by rectal or oral thermometers.

Understanding Temporal Thermometers

Temporal thermometers, also known as forehead thermometers, use infrared technology to measure the heat radiating from the temporal artery, a blood vessel that runs just beneath the skin across the forehead and temple area. This non-invasive method is especially popular for use with infants and children, as it is quick, comfortable, and doesn't require any skin contact.

While convenient, it's important to understand the technology's limitations. The thermometer reads the skin's surface temperature, not the body's internal core temperature. This means environmental factors, sweat, and hair can interfere with the reading. The technique of how the thermometer is moved across the skin—specifically, rolling it across the forehead to the temple—is critical for obtaining a good measurement.

Accuracy Comparison: Temple vs. Other Methods

When considering if you should check the temperature on a temple, it’s helpful to compare its accuracy to other common temperature-taking methods. Different locations on the body provide different baseline readings, so interpreting the results correctly is essential for determining a fever.

Comparing Thermometer Types

• Rectal Thermometer: Widely considered the most accurate method for infants and young children, as it measures the internal core temperature. While accurate, it is invasive and can be uncomfortable.
• Oral Thermometer: A very common and reliable method for older children and adults. Accuracy can be affected by recently eating or drinking hot or cold beverages.
• Ear (Tympanic) Thermometer: Measures infrared heat from the eardrum. Can be quite accurate if used correctly, but earwax buildup or improper positioning can cause inaccurate results.
• Armpit (Axillary) Thermometer: The least accurate method, often used for convenience but requires a prolonged reading time and the temperature is significantly lower than core body temperature.
• Temporal Artery (Temple/Forehead) Thermometer: A good screening tool due to its ease of use and speed, but less precise than rectal or oral methods. The reading can be influenced by environmental factors.

Temporal vs. Oral: A Quick-View Comparison

Feature	Temporal Artery Thermometer	Oral Thermometer
Invasiveness	Non-invasive, no contact needed.	Invasive, must be placed under the tongue.
Speed	Very fast (a few seconds).	A few minutes, requires the mouth to be closed.
Ease of Use	Very easy, especially for children.	Requires cooperation and stillness.
Accuracy	Good for screening, but less precise due to external factors.	Very accurate when used correctly.
Best for...	Quick, gentle checks, especially for sleeping or fussy kids.	Reliable, definitive readings in cooperative individuals.
Known Issues	Easily influenced by sweat, temperature, or improper technique.	Requires waiting after eating/drinking; not for very young children.

Factors That Can Influence Temporal Readings

For reliable results, it's not enough to simply ask, "Should you check the temperature on a temple?"; you must also understand what can affect the reading. Several factors can cause a temporal thermometer to provide a skewed result.

• Sweat: The presence of sweat on the forehead or temple can cause the infrared thermometer to give a falsely low reading due to evaporative cooling. It's crucial to wipe the area dry before measuring.
• Ambient Temperature: Extreme room temperatures can impact the skin's surface temperature. Ensure the reading is taken in a stable, room-temperature environment.
• Hat or Hair: Covering the temporal area with a hat, hair, or even a tight beanie can trap heat and lead to an inaccurately high reading. The area should be clear of obstructions.
• Holding Technique: The way you sweep the thermometer is key. Many devices require a slow, deliberate sweep from the center of the forehead across to the temple to capture the full path of the temporal artery. Rushing or pointing incorrectly will affect accuracy.
• Device Calibration: As with any medical device, proper calibration and following the manufacturer's instructions are essential for obtaining the most accurate possible reading.

Best Practices for Using a Temporal Thermometer

To get the most reliable result when you check the temperature on a temple, follow these best practices:

1. Read the Instructions: Always follow the specific directions provided by the manufacturer of your temporal thermometer. Different models have varying techniques and optimal distances for measurement.
2. Clear the Area: Before use, ensure the forehead and temple are clean, dry, and free of any obstructions like hair, hats, or sweat.
3. Take Multiple Readings: Since external factors can influence results, take several readings (at least two or three) and use the highest one as your reference. The reading can even vary slightly between the left and right temples.
4. Confirm with Another Method if Needed: If you suspect a fever but your temporal reading is borderline or inconsistent, use a more accurate method like an oral or rectal thermometer to confirm. This is especially important for infants or if a definitive diagnosis is required.
5. Wait 15 Minutes: If the person has just come in from being outside or was engaged in physical activity, wait at least 15 minutes to allow their body temperature to stabilize before taking a measurement.

Conclusion

While a temporal thermometer can be a valuable and convenient tool, especially for screening and monitoring temperature, it is not the most accurate method available. The question of "Should you check the temperature on a temple?" can be answered with a qualified 'yes' for initial checks, but with the understanding that external factors can compromise accuracy. For the most precise reading, particularly in infants, other methods remain the gold standard. Always combine temporal readings with other symptoms and consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about a fever. For more comprehensive information on proper thermometer usage, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides excellent guidance: CDC guidance on using a temporal thermometer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are temporal thermometers accurate?

Temporal thermometers are generally reliable for screening but are not as accurate as rectal or oral methods for definitive measurements. External factors like sweat and ambient temperature can impact the reading.

What is the most accurate way to check for a fever?

For infants and young children, a rectal temperature is considered the most accurate. For older children and adults, an oral temperature is a very reliable method.

Can I check my baby's temperature on their temple?

Yes, it is a convenient and non-invasive option for checking a baby's temperature while they are sleeping or fussy. However, for a precise reading, particularly for newborns, a rectal thermometer is recommended.

Why do my temple readings differ from my oral readings?

Temporal readings measure skin surface temperature, which is often slightly lower than your core body temperature. Oral readings are a direct measure of core temperature, leading to a more accurate result.

What affects the accuracy of a temporal thermometer?

Several factors, including sweat, a cold environment, hat or hair obstructing the temporal artery, and improper technique, can all negatively affect the accuracy of the reading.

How should I use a temporal thermometer correctly?

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions. In general, ensure the forehead is dry and clear of hair. Sweep the thermometer across the forehead and over the temple as directed for the most accurate reading.

Should I still check a fever if my temple reading is normal?

If you have other symptoms of a fever, such as chills or body aches, it's wise to confirm the reading with a more accurate method like an oral thermometer. Temporal readings can sometimes miss a lower-grade fever.