Infrared tympanic thermometers read temperatures by means of an infrared beam directed into the ear, toward the tympanic membrane. The accuracy of this type of thermometer is equal to rectal temperature. Liquid-crystal temperature strips applied to the forehead have been tested and found to be inaccurate for clinical purposes. Likewise, temperature sensitive pacifiers will likely miss fevers in many children. Conclusion Fever is a symptom and not a disease.
Fever is a common occurrence in children and is mostly associated with viral infections.
Parents should be assured that fever is almost a condition of normality and is the body's way of turning on the immune system in response to the many pathogens with which their children come into contact. The task for the doctor is to evaluate the fever according to the criteria presented above and to determine if the body is managing the situation normally, or if external assistance is required. Misconceptions of parents about fever. All Rights Reserved, Dynamic Chiropractic, 2001.