What does surface temperature refer to?

Surface temperature refers to the temperature of the skin and the subcutaneous tissue. This measurement reflects the external body temperature, which is influenced by the environment and blood flow to the skin. Surface temperature can vary based on several factors, including exposure to heat or cold, physical activity, and even emotional state.

In clinical practice, monitoring surface temperature is important for assessing a patient's thermal status, identifying potential hypothermia or hyperthermia, and determining the effectiveness of certain interventions. It does not encompass internal body temperature, which would be measured in the core regions of the body, nor does it measure ambient temperature outside the body. Understanding this distinction is crucial in nursing, as it helps in making appropriate health assessments and interventions related to body temperature regulation.