Isolating The Problem With Optional Accessory Modules; Clinical Issues - Datascope Accutorr Plus Service Manual

4.5.3 Isolating the Problems with Optional Accessory Modules:
1. Predictive Temperature Module Test: Obtain one or more temperature readings from the
optional temperature modules. They will be displayed in the temperature display window. If
the readings are not displayed, replace the temperature probe first, then the complete module.
2. Infrared (Accutemp I.R.) temperature module test: The following paragraphs will assist
you to separate those clinical issues that can result in inaccurate or inconsistent readings,
as well as instrument malfunctions.
Since there are no user serviceable components (except 9V battery) inside the
Accutemp I.R. all service requests should be directed to the factory.
3. Recorder Module Test: Obtain a print out of stored data, or perform diagnostics test (#4)
to verify printer integrity. Substitute printer with a know good device to confirm diagnosis.

4.5.4 Clinical Issues

4.5.4.1 Multiple Temperature Measurements
The AccuTemp employs an easy and quick method to taking temperature measurements.
Because of this it is tempting to take immediate, repetive measurements. However,
taking immediate repetitive measurements in the same ear, may result in a decrease in
temperature. This is because the probe of an ear thermometer is cooler than the ear canal
and will draw the heat from the ear canal, cooling the canal slightly. Waiting a few
minutes before taking another temperature in the same ear will give the ear canal time to
recover, and the readings should be consistent with the initial measurement.
4.5.4.2
The AccuTemp is a self-calibrating infrared ear thermometer that accurately measures the infrared
heat energy radiating from the ear canal opening. The AccuTemp determines the highest
temperature in the ear canal opening, measures the ambient temperature, and then calculates
arterial (core) temperature through its patented heat balance system. This measurement will respond
instantly to changes in arterial temperature without the delays and artifacts inherent in oral and
rectal methods, providing the means to identify a fever faster and more reliably than other methods.
Temperature gradients in the ear canal vary with the amount of environmental exposure,
perfusion patterns, ambient temperature, etc. The least variable and therefore most accurate is
the small deep area of warmest, but still visible tissue. A conventional ear thermometer takes many
readings of the same large area, which includes the high gradient distal ear tissue, resulting in
low, non-reproducible, and inaccurate temperature readings. The AccuTemp utilizes a narrow
field-of-view and scanning capability to search the ear for the small deep area of warmest tissue
required for heat balance calculation to ensure highly accurate and reproducible arterial temperatures.
The temperature measurement will remain on the display for a minimum of 55 and a
maximum of 65 seconds after the Start button is released. If using the AccuTemp with
and Accutorr Plus, the temperature measurement can be transferred from the AccuTemp
to the Accutorr Plus for display and entry in to the trend database, by placing the
AccuTemp in its holder within the 60 seconds after releasing the Start button. A beep
tone is sounded from the Accutorr Plus once the temperature measurement information
4-6
Added 6/25/99
How the AccuTemp Measures Arterial Temperature (adults/pediatrics)
Accutorr Plus Service Manual
Chapter 4 - Repair Information