Background & Aim

Monitoring newborn temperature at birth is a crucial part of stabilisation as hypothermia is associated with adverse outcomes. We have developed a novel multiparameter sensor (MPS) that continuously measures SpO2, ECG, and skin temperature. We aimed to develop an in-vitro model to measure surface temperature during delivery room care and assess MPS accuracy and time to reach core temperature.

See poster download for Methods and Results. 

Discussion:

The VSP consistently demonstrated readings closer to core temperature when compared to the SSP and achieved this more rapidly at all radiant heat settings. The SSP failed to reach within 0.1°C of the core temperature at radiant heat power of 0% and 50% by 30 minutes, with the VSP reaching within 0.1°C of the core temperature 2.3 times faster than the SSP at radiant heat power of 100%. There were periods during which the VSP read higher than the CT, although this difference remained within 0.4°C (with 100% radiant heat power). This has been addressed in the latest VSP prototype with the use of shielding which is currently undergoing testing.

Conclusion:

A novel multiparameter device quickly and accurately measures core temperature in a variety of in-vitro experimental settings compared with a current, clinically used skin surface temperature probe. The MPS could enhance delivery room thermoregulatory management.