Thermometer for Sensory Issues

Specialties School

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I know there are several threads on the best thermometers, but working with all special needs kids who very rarely tolerate an ear thermometer (forget about oral!) I am looking for a no contact infrared thermometer.

A poor little student was burning up and it took 3 people and 45 minutes to get a temperature reading using the ear thermometer. Thankfully the temperature wasn't dangerously high, but definitely needed to get him some Motrin or Tylenol and get him home.

I read a review about the Welch Allyn CareTemp that it was very inaccurate. I am about to order the SantaMedical No Contact Infrared Thermometer. Any thoughts?? The price difference is HUGH! (Welch Allyn $300, SantaMedical $30). Which makes me question the durability, accuracy, and overall quality.

HELP! I am at a loss and don't want to make a wrong choice and waste the money!

Don't want to start an argument but i will defend it. It took that long because we do not force anything. It took three people to sit with, play with, and support the emotional needs of the child. Respect is my number one policy. I hope you know that I would NEVER force anything, but merely sit and help the child process what is going on through narration, sensory modalities, and straight up empathy. I normally don't respond to posts like this, but when it questions my character I must put it into context. Thank you for requiring the clarification.

My apologies, as that is not how I read that.

ETA: That context, in the original post would have been helpful.

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My apologies, as that is not how I read that.

ETA: That context, in the original post would have been helpful.

You may be right, but I didn't want to make the post any longer and it may have been better for you to have asked the context instead of insulting ones nursing character. I don't get easily offended much, but when it comes to how I treat my kids (who i love very much like they're my own) I get a little defensive. i appreciate your apology, but do ask that next time if you are unsure of the context to simply ask.

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Specializes in Pediatrics Retired.
My apologies, as that is not how I read that.

ETA: That context, in the original post would have been helpful.

I think where this got into the weeds is...if you had posted a PICU related thread other PICU nurses would read it through the filter of all the PICU processes/procedures/and automatic routines you guys deal with; thank God for you! Because when I walk into a PICU my eyes glaze over. So, similarly, school nurses read this thread with a different understanding of the circumstances, student population, and environment and didn't give the temperature taking "time" a 2nd thought.

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I think where this got into the weeds is...if you had posted a PICU related thread other PICU nurses would read it through the filter of all the PICU processes/procedures/and automatic routines

you guys deal with; thank God for you! Because when I walk into a PICU my eyes glaze over. So, similarly, school nurses read this thread with a different understanding of the circumstances, student population, and environment and didn't give the temperature taking "time" a 2nd thought.

Great point! Of course trying to get vital signs for 45 minutes is unrealistic in a PICU setting. There are also a lot more resources.

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