Temperature Measurement in Post-Anesthesia Care Units

Accuracy of Temperature Measurement in Post-Anesthesia Care Units

This study will evaluate the accuracy of several thermometers and temperature changes during surgery and immediately after surgery.

Several measurements of temperature will be taken at 30 minute intervals during surgery under general anesthesia and in the post operative care unit. Measurements will be taken as follows:

• esophagus using an internal stethoscope
• urinary bladder using a catheter
• ear canal
• skin of the forehead using adhesive devices(4 thermometers)
• axilla ("armpit") using adhesive devices(2 thermometers)
• mouth
• skin of the upper chest

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 to 80 years of age
• American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status of 1-3
• laparoscopic surgery of the abdomen or pelvis that is expected to require general endotracheal anesthesia and insertion of a Foley catheter expected to be in place for at least one hour after surgery

Exclusion Criteria:

• under 18 or over 80 years of age
• pre-existing nasogastric tube
• require bispectral index monitoring
• upper esophageal disease
• forehead rash or infection, oral infection or trauma, or ear infection or drainage