Evaluation of a continuous neonatal temperature monitor for low-resource settings: a device feasibility pilot study

Abstract

ObjectiveEvaluate a novel continuous temperature monitor in a low-resource neonatal ward.DesignWe developed a low-cost continuous neonatal temperature monitor (NTM) for use in low-resource settings. Accuracy of NTM was initially assessed in the laboratory. Clinical evaluation then was performed in a neonatal ward in a central hospital in Malawi; eligible neonates (<1 week of age) were recruited for continuous temperature monitoring with NTM and a Philips Intellivue MP30 Patient Monitor.Interventions and outcome measuresThe temperature probes of NTM and the reference patient monitor were attached to the infant’s abdomen, and core temperature was continuously recorded for up to 3 hours. Axillary temperatures were taken every hour. We compared temperatures measured using NTM, the patient monitor and the axillary thermometer.ResultsLaboratory temperature measurements obtained with NTM were within 0.059°C (range: −0.035°C to 0.195°C) of a reference thermometer. A total of 39 patients were recruited to participate in the clinical evaluation of NTM; data from four patients were excluded due to faulty hardware connections. The mean difference in measured temperatures between the NTM and the Intellivue MP30 was −0.04°C (95% CI −0.52°C to 0.44°C).ConclusionNTM meets ISO 80601-2-56 standards for accuracy and is an appropriate, low-cost continuous temperature monitor for neonatal wards in low-resource settings.Trial registration numbersNCT03965312 and NCT03866122.

Acceptability and feasibility of the BEMPU TempWatch for hypothermia monitoring in neonatal care in Ghana: a qualitative study of clinicians’ perspectives

“…In the evaluation of a different device, the neonatal temperature monitor (NTM) in a hospital setting in Malawi, clinical staff valued the continuous digital temperature display and preferred to use the displayed temperature rather than taking axillary temperature during rounds. 6 A digital temperature display on the BEMPU Temp-Watch could potentially avert additional work associated with taking frequent axillary temperatures but would still need to be supplemented with manual assessments when probable hypothermic neonates are identified. In addition to a temperature display screen, innovators should consider enhancing the usability of the bracelet.…”

“…For example, the NTM device has indicator lights to signal normothermia, hypothermia and hyperthermia. 6 Other researchers have also advocated for the BEMPU Temp-Watch to be multiuse. 23 Based on the findings of the study, clinicians felt highly positive about the idea of BEMPU TempWatch.…”

“…1 6 However, understaffing and lack of space and equipment in neonatal wards make it challenging to implement and adhere to standard temperature monitoring guidelines, resulting in missed cases of neonatal hypothermia. 6 Emerging wearable technology has the potential to address the limitations of current standard temperature monitoring, promote the adoption of evidence-based practices and improve neonatal health outcomes. One promising device, the BEMPU TempWatch, developed by BEMPU Health in Bangalore, India, provides continuous real-time monitoring of the body temperature of newborns for the early detection of hypothermia.…”