How to use a thermometer
There are many types of thermometers available.
Digital thermometers
The most common thermometers are digital. You can use these for adults and children of any age. They are accurate, easy to use and are usually the cheapest.
Electronic ear thermometers
These are expensive and are less accurate in small babies.
Infrared forehead thermometers
Infrared forehead thermometers appear quick and easy to use, as you simply point them at the person’s forehead. However, they are not accurate as they measure the forehead skin temperature which changes a lot with blood flow and room temperature.
Plastic strip thermometer
These are plastic strips that you place on the person’s forehead – they are not accurate so it’s best not to use them.
Mercury-in-glass thermometer
These old style thermometers are no longer available but some households still have them. Mercury vapour can be toxic if the thermometer breaks, so don’t use these thermometers. Consider getting a digital thermometer instead.
You can use a digital for adults and children of any age. A digital gives a digital reading. There are a number of brands. You need to read and follow the instructions that come with your thermometer. It is useful to keep a written record of temperature readings so that you can see if there is any change over time. It is also helpful information to give to your healthcare provider if you seek medical help.
Children under 5 years: use a digital under your child’s arm
If your child is under 5 years, you can use the digital thermometer under your child’s arm. If you measure the temperature under their arm, เล่นเกมคาสิโน UFABET ทันสมัย ฝากถอนง่าย it records about 0.5–1 degree Celsius lower than the core temperature.
Follow these steps to use a digital under the arm (the axillary temperature).
- Turn it on (these thermometers usually have a button you press to turn on).
- Place the end in the armpit against the skin, and bring your child’s arm down over the top of it – it often helps to hug your child to keep the arm down and in place.
- Most thermometers beep when they have finished measuring your child’s temperature so wait for the beep.
- Note that some thermometers also beep while measuring and the beep changes when the thermometer has finished measuring. To avoid confusion, it is worth keeping the thermometer in place for 2 minutes.
- Remove and read the number on the side – the temperature you read is about 0.5–1 degree Celsius lower than your child’s actual body or core temperature.
Adults and children 5 years and older: measure their temperature in their mouth
In adults and children 5 years of age or older you can measure the temperature in their mouth (the oral temperature). Make sure you only use a digital thermometer in your child’s mouth.