Thill Speed, accuracy and, increasingly, infection control are the key issues affecting buyers' thermometry decision-making. Ever since Galileo invented the first thermometer in 1600, thermometry has undergone many technological transformations, so that today, one finds not only traditional glass models, but digital, infrared and dot matrix ones as well. Speed, accuracy and, increasingly, infection control are the key issues affecting buyers' decision-making today. Braun ThermoScan Product Manager Brian Packard points out that physician offices need to consider their patient population when buying thermometers. Braun's ThermoScan line, which it purchased in November 1995, lends itself particularly well to pediatricians and family practices, says Packard.
Sick kids have little tolerance for temperature-taking.
A quick tympanic read is best-suited to such a clientele. Infection control continues to be a serious issue for providers today. Thermometers with disposable probe covers, as well as disposable dot-matrix thermometers, are especially attractive from this perspective. Clinical studies have shown that tympanic thermometers can reduce the incidence of infection among nursing home residents, says Packard. Studies such as these can provide valuable information to the distributor sales rep.