Typical 19th Century Thermometer

II. Body Surface Temperature

History and Introduction

As early as 2800 BC, the Egyptians, using the scanning sensitivity of the fingers over the surface of the body, recognized that the body pro- duces heat, and that heat increases with disease. Further recognizing the distinction between local inflammation and fever, the Egyptians set the foundation for monitoring body surface temperature as a separate and distinct diagnostic methodology from the monitoring of core body temperature.

But the ancient diagnostic technique of feeling for heat is highly subjec- tive, and only as sensitive as the hand of the feeler. The test of tem- perature is relative to the detector. A cold hand will indicate a warm body surface that a warm hand will indicate as cold. Certainly, the hand

of an experienced physician laid upon the skin could provide much use- ful information about the temperature of the patient and the course of an illness, but eventually a more objective assessment was possible with the introduction of the clinical thermometer developed during the last century.

One of the earliest references to actually quantifying body surface tem- perature as a clinical diagnostic was in 1864 during the Civil War. Dr. Jackson Chambliss, a surgeon in the Confederate Army, used a ther- mometer to diagnose a traumatic femoral aneurysm by showing that surface temperature was decreased distally in the affected leg. 1

In more recent times, the measure- ment of the surface temperature of the human body has not been rou- tinely undertaken in many clinical en- vironments - not because the mea- surement lacks clinical significance, but because it has been difficult to acquire. Conventional mercury or electronic thermometers have gen- erally been ineffective for surface

temperature measurements for three reasons: 1) they are difficult to properly attach to the body surface, 2) they require a significant amount of time for the sensor portion of the device to equilibrate to the body

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Exergen DT 1001-RS, DT 1001-LT, DT 1001-LN manual II. Body Surface Temperature History and Introduction
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DT 1001-LN, DT 1001-RS, DT 1001, DT 1001-LT specifications

The Exergen DT 1001 series, consisting of the DT 1001-LN, DT 1001, DT 1001-RS, and DT 1001-LT, represents a cutting-edge advancement in non-invasive infrared thermometry technology. These models are designed for accurate and reliable temperature measurement across various settings, making them invaluable tools for healthcare professionals, educators, and individuals monitoring their own health.

A standout feature of the Exergen DT 1001 series is its precision in measuring core body temperature. Utilizing patented infrared technology, these devices detect the thermal radiation emitted by the temporal artery, thus providing an accurate representation of internal body temperature. This non-invasive method is not only safe but also quick, as it can yield results within seconds, making it ideal for both clinical environments and home use.

The DT 1001 series emphasizes ease of use. Equipped with a simple one-button operation, even individuals without technical training can operate the device effectively. The easy-to-read digital display provides clear temperature readings, which can often be coupled with visual and auditory alerts for fever detection, enhancing user experience.

Further enhancing user convenience is the memory function of the DT 1001 series. These models can store multiple readings, allowing users to track temperature trends over time. This feature is particularly useful in monitoring patients with fevers or chronic health issues where regular temperature checks are necessary.

The DT 1001-LN and DT 1001-LT are distinguished by their lightweight and portable design, making them suitable for on-the-go temperature checks. Conversely, the DT 1001-RS is optimized for clinical settings, featuring enhanced durability and robust performance under frequent usage.

Each model has been rigorously validated to meet clinical standards, ensuring that healthcare practitioners can rely on their accuracy. With their advanced technology, user-friendly design, and versatility, the Exergen DT 1001 series stands out as a leading choice in the realm of non-contact thermometers, promoting effective health monitoring for a wide range of users. Their continued popularity highlights a significant trend in modern healthcare towards efficient, precise, and non-invasive diagnostic tools.
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