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I wrote a letter to the BMJ last year setting out the evidence for non-contact infrared thermometry in adults.1 Unlike paediatric use, my conclusion was that these devices are not reliable in adults, largely because vasoconstriction the blood supply to their foreheads and perspiration leading to a dangerously high false negative rate. A similar conclusion has been reached by the Scottish Health Technology Group, advising against their use for adults in Scottish NHS hospitals.2
References
1. Vernon G. Inaccuracy of forehead thermometers (letter). BMJ 2013; 346: f1747.
2. Marsden A. Re: Inaccuracy of forehead thermometers (electronic letter). BMJ 2013; 346: f1747/rr/645652.
Competing Interests: None declared.