Body Surface Temperature In Neonates After Delivery

Background: Numerous reports exist about core temperature during postnatal adaptation. However, almost no data are available about surface temperature in neonates. Infrared thermography allows to record temperature profile without direct skin contact.Materials and Methods: It was aim of this study to investigate surface temperature in newborns within the first hour after delivery. Furthermore, the influence of different environmental conditions with regard to surface temperature was documented. Body surface temperature was recorded under several enviromnental conditions by use of infrared thermography.Results: 42 newborns all delivered at term and with weight appropriate for date were investigated under controlled conditions. Surface temperature immediately after birth shows a uniform picture of the whole body, however significantly lower than core temperature. Soon after birth peripheral sites become cooler whereas constant temperature is maintained at the trunk. Bathing in warm water again leads to a more even temperature profile. Radiant heaters and skin to skin contact are both effective methods to prevent neonates from heat loss.Conclusions: Infrared thermography is a simple and reliable tool for the measurement of skin temperature profiles in neonates. Without the need of direct skin contact, it may be helpful for optimizing environmental conditions at delivery suites and neonatal intensive care units.