Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ is designed for hospital procurement teams, clinical engineers, infection prevention specialists, and nursing staff evaluating non-contact medical thermometers such as TRITEMP™. Non-contact thermometry helps reduce cross-infection risk, eliminate plastic probe covers, lower consumables costs, and improve nursing workflow. Below you’ll find answers on clinical accuracy, infection control, newborn/infant use, sustainability, and distributor availability. For further clinical evidence or pricing information, please contact our team.
General Non-Contact Thermometry
What is a non-contact medical thermometer?
A non-contact medical thermometer measures body temperature by detecting infrared energy emitted from the skin surface of the forehead — without touching the patient. In the case of TRITEMP™, it’s designed for hospital use, measuring at a 3-5cm distance.
Are non-contact thermometers accurate enough for hospital use?
Yes. For example, TRITEMP™ offers accuracy of ±0.2°C (±0.4°F) in the key clinical range (36.0-39.0°C) and ±0.3°C (±0.6°F) outside that range.
This level of accuracy makes it clinically valid for hospital temperature measurement when used according to instructions (forehead site, correct distance, trained personnel).
How does a non-contact thermometer compare to tympanic or oral devices?
In many settings a non-contact forehead thermometer offers faster, non-intrusive readings and better workflow for nursing staff. Clinical accuracy may vary dependent on site, patient age, and ambient conditions. TRITEMP™ claims equivalent accuracy to internal body probes (“±0.2 °C”).
TRITEMP™ Product & Clinical Use
What clinical settings is TRITEMP™ suitable for? (ICU, NICU, ED, Oncology, etc.)
TRITEMP™ is designed for hospital-grade use including ICU, NICU, Emergency Department and oncology wards. The manufacturer lists ICU, NICU, ED as case study settings (e.g., Bon Secours Dublin, St. Claraspital Switzerland) on their site.
Its rapid 1-second read time and zero consumables design make it well suited to high-throughput, high-risk environments.
Is TRITEMP™ validated for clinical accuracy?
Yes, TRITEMP™ is described as offering ±0.2°C accuracy in the key range and is traceable to the ASTME1965-98 standard and EN60601-1-2 regarding electromagnetic compatibility.
How often does TRITEMP™ need calibration?
The device is factory-calibrated at the time of manufacture, and when used according to instructions, periodic adjustment is not required. However, TriMedika recommends an annual calibration check or when accuracy is in question.
Cleaning, Disinfection & Infection Control
Does TRITEMP™ help reduce risk of cross-contamination?
Yes. Because it does not touch the patient and requires no probe covers, the device removes a contact point and disposal pathway for reusable/ single-use items, thereby reducing one vector for cross-infection.
The cleaning instructions also support rapid turnover between patients with minimal downtime.
Is TRITEMP™ suitable for infection control and outbreak prevention programmes?
Yes. Its non-contact design, rapid read time, no consumables, and hospital-grade accuracy make TRITEMP™ appropriate for infection control programmes in hospitals. For outbreak prevention (e.g., influenza, COVID-19), the rapid throughput and distancing advantage are a strong fit.
How do I clean and disinfect TRITEMP™ between patient checks?
According to the instructions for use, you should clean the exterior with a cloth moistened with mild soapy detergent, and clean the sensor (lens) with a cotton bud moistened in isopropyl or ethyl alcohol. Never submerge the device or use water on the sensor
Cost Savings & Sustainability
How does TRITEMP™ help hospitals reduce costs?
Hospitals save on consumables (probe covers), waste disposal, staff time for cleaning/maintenance, and fewer device replacements (TRITEMP™ claims low breakage rate). One reseller page notes a 400-bed hospital could save more than £100,000 over two years.
How much plastic waste can hospitals eliminate by switching from probe covers?
Since TRITEMP™ requires no probe covers, a hospital using thousands of measurements per day can eliminate the associated plastic and disposal waste. Follow the link to our free cost calculator page – Cost Saving Hospital Grade Thermometer | TRITEMP™
What is the lifetime value of a TRITEMP™ device?
TRITEMP™ is rated for at least 40,000 measurements.
Given its consumable-free usage and durable design, the lifetime value (reduced consumables + time saved + fewer replacements) is significantly higher than disposable probe-based thermometers.
Procurement & Distribution
Is TRITEMP™ compliant with ISO 13485 and CE markings?
Yes — The product is ISO 13485 certified and CE-marked for use in the EU.
Is TRITEMP™ available in the NHS, HSE, EU, Middle East, or US?
Yes — TriMedika lists global distribution. TRITEMP™ is used in 22 countries worldwide.
Where can hospitals order TRITEMP™ devices?
Hospitals can order via TriMedika’s website (eCommerce or enquiry form) and through authorised frameworks and distributors:
Via NHS Supply Chain: The TRITEMP™ > NHS Supply Chain
Via CME Corp: TRITEMP™ > CME CORP
