The Association Between Body Temperature and Heart Rate Across Age Groups: A Prospective Multicentre Repeated-Measures Observational Cohort Study

Description

The TEMP-PULSE study aims to estimate how heart rate changes with each 1°C change in body temperature within the same patient and whether this relationship differs across age groups. This prospective, multicentre observational study will recruit patients aged ≥2 months from emergency departments and acute outpatient services at participating hospitals in Palestine. The proposed sample includes 750 participants across five age groups, with up to four paired temperature and heart-rate measurements per participant during routine care. Relevant clinical factors, including pain, agitation, hydration, oxygen saturation, illness severity and medication exposure, will be recorded. Mixed-effects models will estimate age-specific associations while accounting for repeated measurements and potential confounders. The findings will assess the applicability of the conventional 10 beats/min per 1°C rule across age groups and support more informed interpretation of vital signs. Recruitment will begin after the required ethical and institutional approvals, and participation will not alter or delay clinical care.