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May 24, 2013
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Temperature Probe


A temperature probe measures a baby's skin temperature. The probe is part of an environmental control system used to help regulate a baby's body temperature.

A small device is held in place on the surface of a baby's skin. Temperature measurements are transmitted by a long wire to a probe, which also connects to a warmer. Different types of warmers are used, depending on where a baby is lying. Readings from the probe automatically adjust the temperature of a baby's isolette or overhead heater. When a baby's skin temperature is too low, the probe signals a warmer to increase the amount of heat it gives out. A skin temperature that is too high signals the warmer to reduce heat.

These devices are used in a variety of hospital settings, such as delivery rooms, to warm babies immediately after birth and in neonatal intensive care units (NICU).

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerSarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerJohn Pope, MD - Pediatrics
Last RevisedApril 14, 2011

eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from Healthwise

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