A thermometer should be in every home in order to measure body temperature in time and take action. Previously, they used mercury thermometers, but they were replaced by more advanced electronic devices.
How to use an electronic thermometer correctly? It is important to press the tip of the thermometer firmly against your body so that the sensor heats up. Wait for the sound signal. To correctly measure body temperature, you should wait 3-5 seconds after the thermometer signal sounds. The most accurate temperature results are obtained with oral and rectal measurements. When using a non-contact thermometer, you must maintain the correct distance.
In the article we will consider the issue of using a thermometer to measure body temperature in adults and infants, as well as a review of the best electronic models.
Description of the electronic thermometer
A conventional electronic, or digital, thermometer is distinguished by the absence of mercury inside the measuring device. The heating degree is recorded by a highly sensitive sensor (thermistor) located at the tip of the device.
The electronic gadget is covered with hypoallergenic plastic, some models are covered with waterproof plastic. The tip is made of metal.
The structure of a conventional electronic thermometer:
- oblong body;
- thermistor;
- display;
- battery;
- power button.
Since there is no mercury in the thermometer, it is a safe device to use. It can be used by children and adults.
The device can be used to measure temperature in several places:
- orally;
- rectally;
- in the elbow bend;
- in the armpit;
- in the groin area.
If you had to wait 10 minutes to get a result using a mercury thermometer, then an electronic device takes measurements no longer than one or two minutes. A sound signal will indicate the completion of the process, and numbers will appear on the display.
The electronic device is battery operated. After the measurement process is completed, the thermometer automatically turns off, which shows the economy of charge consumption.
Types of electronic thermometer
The medical industry produces several varieties of this device. They differ from each other in the design principle and the set of additional options:
- built-in memory;
- display backlight;
- scale switching;
- removable tips;
- other functions.
The device remembers and stores the results of past measurements so that the results can be compared. Some thermometers remember up to thirty-two readings.
On a note! Some models have a waterproof body: you can measure the temperature in the baby's bathtub.
The display backlight is convenient for night temperature measurement. You don't have to turn on the general light to see the numbers on the screen.
Switching the measuring scale from Fahrenheit to Celsius - for ease of use in different countries. In the USA they use the Fahrenheit scale, although most countries have switched to Celsius.
Important! Removable tips are convenient if the whole family uses one thermometer.
Positive characteristics of an electronic thermometer:
- safety;
- versatility;
- speed;
- comfort;
- simplicity;
- efficiency.
On a note! The only disadvantage of an electronic infrared thermometer is its high price; no other disadvantages have been identified.
Thermometers on the forehead
There are also measuring instruments that are placed on the forehead. These thermal strips quickly measure the temperature, which is visible on the scale. For convenience, the scale is given in Celsius and Fahrenheit.
Advantages:
- compact dimensions;
- reusable;
- can be used while the child is sleeping;
- you can monitor the dynamics of temperature decrease.
Among the disadvantages, one can note the abrasion of the sticky layer over time. Therefore, you have to hold the strip with your hands.
Infrared thermometer
This is an innovative model for measuring body temperature, which has already been appreciated by young mothers. A non-contact thermometer allows you to measure not only body temperature, but also liquid temperature.
For example, formula in a bottle or other drink can be tested without immersing the thermometer inside. The result appears on the display after a few seconds.
Infrared thermometers come in two types:
- contactless;
- contact.
Non-contact models simply need to be brought to the forehead or temples at a distance of 8 mm. It's convenient and comfortable.
Disadvantages include the error of the indicators if the child cries a lot or has a respiratory disease. You have to double check with a mercury or other thermometer.
Pacifier thermometer for infants
For the little ones, the medical industry has released a special pacifier with a sensitive sensor inside. There is a power button on the nipple that activates the operation of the device.
The child sucks on the pacifier, and at this time the thermistor records body temperature. The numbers are displayed on the display, which is located on a silicone coating.
Completion of the sensor operation is accompanied by a sound signal. As with other electronic devices, the readings are stored in memory.
On a note! If your baby doesn't like the pacifier, he'll spit it out before you have time to measure his temperature.
It is not recommended to use the thermometer as a regular pacifier. After measuring the temperature, the pacifier is disinfected and removed until the next time.
There is one more drawback to this pacifier: the sound may frighten the baby, and next time he will flatly refuse to put this suspicious object in his mouth.
Detailed instructions for measuring temperature
Body temperature is one of the main indicators for judging human health. Modern medicine knows 4 main ways to measure this parameter:
- Oral;
- Rectal;
- Axillary;
- Infrared – non-contact.
Each method is used depending on the conditions of use and the person’s condition. True, none of the devices yet have the technical ability to independently call the emergency room in case of critical indicators, as the Apple watch did and saved the owner who had fainted.
Under the arm
One of the most classic ways to find out what body temperature is the axillary method, in other words, measuring in the armpit. In this case, the technology for using an electric thermometer is similar to the algorithm for using a mercury analogue:
- The person takes a comfortable position and places the thermometer tightly under the armpit parallel to the body;
- Wait time for the device to heat up;
- Evaluate the display readings.
It is worth remembering that this method is one of the most inaccurate. Therefore, it is recommended to increase the time the thermometer stays under the arm by 1–2 minutes depending on the requirements of the specific device model (after the sound signal). The normal armpit temperature is considered to be 36.3°-36.9°.
Oral
This method allows you to carry out the procedure faster, in addition, it will provide more accurate data. Surprisingly, in the post-Soviet space, this method, like the rectal one, is often used only by doctors because ordinary people simply do not know how to use an electronic thermometer or its mercury analogue for oral measurements. In fact, the sequence of actions is quite simple:
- The thermometer is disinfected (Xiaomi has released a pocket disinfector for such purposes - it is suitable for both thermometer and gadgets);
- The device is placed with a sensor under the tongue;
- After the sound signal, the display readings are evaluated.
Naturally, data obtained from different parts of the body will differ. For the oral cavity, a temperature from 36.8° to 37.3° is considered normal.
Rectal
The most accurate temperature reading will be measured in the rectum. This method is also used to monitor unconscious patients. The algorithm for the rectal method is somewhat more complicated:
- The sensor is lubricated with Vaseline;
- The person lies on his side or stomach;
- The thermometer is turned on and gradually inserted into the rectum to a depth of about 3 cm;
- It is recommended to tense your buttocks and hold the thermometer until the procedure is completed.
A person can be considered healthy if the temperature inside the rectum is between 37.3°-37.9°.
What determines the measurement accuracy of a contact thermometer?
Sometimes you hear that an electronic thermometer shows inaccurate results compared to a mercury thermometer. The quality of measurement of an electronic gadget depends on the correct position of the tip of the device: it is this tip that should heat up.
The liquid metal is heated in a mercury thermometer, so the position of the tip does not play a special role. The tip of the electronic device must be pressed tightly against the body for it to show the correct result. There should be no gaps between the tip and the body.
On a note! An electronic thermometer shows the most accurate result using oral and rectal methods of measuring temperature. Measurement in the armpit may have an error of 1.5 degrees.
Experts have experimentally determined that you need to hold the thermometer for another half a minute after the sound signal. It is not recommended to immediately complete the measurement process because errors often occur.
The accuracy of the result is also affected by the battery charge. If it sits down, the readings will be incorrect. Monitor the condition of the batteries and replace them regularly.
There is a way to determine the error of the readings using a simple test. You need to pour warm water into a glass and lower both thermometers into it - mercury and electronic.
The difference in readings will constitute an error that should be taken into account when measuring body temperature. A mercury thermometer works without errors, unlike an electronic one.
Test for checking an electronic thermometer
If you doubt the accuracy of the thermometer readings, you can carry out the following simple test using two thermometers - mercury and electronic and a glass of water. Take plain warm water and place both thermometers there. After three minutes you can already see how well the electronic thermometer works. If the data from the electronic thermometer is very different, then you have a direct route to the service center. In addition, electronic thermometers have a significant warranty period.
By the way, the temperature test can be carried out not only on water, but also on yourself by measuring the temperature with a mercury and electronic thermometer. You can simply remember the difference in readings and then simply “add” the missing degrees. Typically the difference is about 2 tenths. That is, on mercury 36.6, on electronic - 36.4. On mercury 37.5 - on electronic 37.3.
So, let's summarize.
- Be sure to hold the thermometer correctly (vertical/downward angle, press firmly). Do not move with a thermometer.
- Ignore the squeaking sound; hold the thermometer under your arm for the same amount of time as the mercury thermometer until the temperature finally stops increasing (up to 10 minutes).
- Measure the temperature not under the armpit, but in the mouth - the result will be more accurate.
- It is better to first test the purchased electronic thermometer.
- Do not measure temperature with a wet thermometer.
You can read more about electronic thermometers here.
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Instructions for using a thermometer for adults
How to measure temperature with an electronic thermometer ? The methods for measuring temperature in an adult and a child are different. This comes with a responsibility that young children do not have.
In the armpit
You need to press the tip of the thermometer tightly into the armpit so that there are no gaps. After the sound signal, it is recommended to hold the device for another 2-3 minutes, and only then remove it.
In practice, the thermometer sensor does not have time to heat up in a short time, so the readings are not accurate. If a mercury thermometer heats up within 10 minutes, then an electronic one also needs to be kept longer.
Oral
This measurement result is considered the most accurate, therefore it is used in clinics.
Technique:
- disinfect the tip of the device;
- turn on the device;
- insert the tip of the thermometer into your mouth about 3 cm;
- complete the measurement after a beep.
It is not recommended to drink drinks or eat food before taking your temperature. It is also not recommended to take a bath or increase body temperature through physical activity.
Rectally
Measuring the temperature through the rectum gives the most accurate result, as close as possible to the readings of the condition of the internal organs.
Technique:
- lubricate the tip of the device with Vaseline or greasy ointment;
- lie on your side and insert the tip of the device into the rectum 3 cm deep;
- Squeeze your buttocks tightly to prevent cold air from entering;
- constantly hold the thermometer with your fingers so that it is inside;
- wait for the sound signal and remove the device.
While measuring temperature, you must not move or walk. After completing the measurement, the device should be thoroughly disinfected with a medical solution.
How long should you keep an electronic thermometer?
Most electronic thermometers are equipped with a sound sensor that notifies you that the temperature has been measured. But you shouldn’t delude yourself. Most instructions indicate that the beep does not indicate the end of the measurement. Your temperature may rise slightly by 0.3-0.4 degrees. So it’s better to hold the thermometer longer. Or remember the difference that the thermometer shows a few minutes after the sound signal and add it in the future. Usually the difference is 0.3-0.4 degrees, but it is better to check it yourself.
By the way, in the USA, temperature is measured mainly in the mouth, and not in the armpit. The thermometer in the armpit does not have time to warm up. Even expensive models of thermometers with a larger sensor, specifically designed for measuring under the arm, show 0.2-0.3 degrees less. So you can try to measure the temperature using the American method.
Instructions for using a thermometer for infants
Infants are very mobile, so you need to carefully monitor the tightness of the tip of the thermometer to the body.
Elbow joint
This method of measuring temperature is the simplest. You need to sit the baby on your lap, bend the arm at the elbow joint and place the tip of the thermometer in the fold. The baby's head needs to be supported, and so does the thermometer. Make sure that there are no gaps between the tip of the device and the baby’s skin.
After the sound signal, you do not need to immediately remove the device; hold it for a couple more minutes. This is necessary to achieve accurate indicators.
Rectally
This is the most reliable way to measure the body temperature of a baby and an adult. Before measuring, you need to disinfect the tip and lubricate it with rich cream (for children) or Vaseline.
After this, the baby is placed on his tummy, the thermometer is turned on and the tip is carefully inserted into the rectum 3 cm deep. Hold the thermometer until a beep sounds and remove it.
“34.5 again”: what to do if electronic thermometers shamelessly lie
Typically, pistol thermometer screens give an average result of 35.5. It can also be less – 34.7, for example
Photo: Alena MARTYNOVA
If you believe all the temperature measurements that were taken for me over the past couple of months at the entrance to the clinic, MFC, shopping centers, hotels and other places, then I am still warm and warm up to the norm of 36.6. Typically, pistol thermometer screens give an average result of 35.5. It can also be less – 34.7, for example.
In the old days, with such a temperature, I would have run to see a doctor, now I don’t even pay attention to these numbers, because they only say one thing - everything is fine with me, and thermometers lie, lowering body temperature by a degree and a half .
There is even this joke: “The Oscar for acting should go to the security guard who takes your temperature at the entrance; you both see 34.5 there. And with a calm face, as if this is normal, he lets you in.”
Soviet accountants remember that when electronic calculators appeared on their desks, instantly multiplying thousands by millions, there was no trust in these calculators. They were counted on wooden abacuses. Now it’s the same story with the recently appeared electronic thermometers. Many people also don’t trust these outlandish devices and measure their body temperature with an old mercury thermometer. If, of course, you have this thermometer. So I decided to figure out which thermometer is more accurate - mercury, electronic or infrared.
“THE USE OF THEM IS LIKE A GOAT OF MILK”
First, I went to the pharmacy to get a thermometer. It was a business trip to Vyatskie Polyany. I visited 5 pharmacies!
- Woman, are you crazy?! – they answered me in one of them. – Mercury thermometers have not been imported for a year!
- And why?
- Out of stock. So we don't have it.
- They don’t produce it, or what?
- Do I know? Take an electronic one.
- But the electronic one, they say, shows an inaccurate temperature.
Pharmacists agree with me, but explain that if you place such a thermometer under the armpit and along the body, and not across, the result will be close to reality. After much thought, I bought a Swiss company for 299 rubles with a metal tip. There are also infrared pistols in Vyatskie Polyany, but they cost two thousand and more. The most expensive is 5000.
“True, they’re as good as milk from a goat,” says the same pharmacist. – Everything is made in China. Even though it's a European company. And in China no one measures them for accuracy. We tried to use one here, but it first shows that I have 38 degrees, and after 5 minutes - 36. Well, how can I trust him?
At the hotel I took out my purchase and read the instructions. It says there are three ways to measure temperature:
- oral, putting the tip under the tongue, - for a minute,
- rectal, inserting the tip 1 cm deep, - for a minute,
- axillary, holding the tip tightly under the armpit.
In the latter case, you cannot remove the thermometer immediately after the sound signal; you need to wait 2-3 minutes until the device reaches the temperature.
I didn’t experiment with rectal. First I measured it in my mouth – 36.3. Then under the armpit - 36.6.
Returning home, I measured my daughter’s temperature using the same methods. In the mouth - 34.4. Armpit – 37.1. The mercury thermometer in my armpit showed 36.6. So, what evidence should we believe?
WHAT IF THE BATTERY GOES OUT?
Pediatrician Evgeny Timakov advised me to throw away this electronic thermometer.
“It’s not calibrated,” the doctor said. — That is, it did not pass testing in Rosstandart, but ended up on the shelves. If the supplier had been honest, he would have sent the batch to experts and they would not have allowed it to be sold. Because the temperature in the mouth cannot be 34.4. The oral measurement is always higher than the armpit.
If, according to Timakov, a rating of thermometers was compiled, then electronic devices would take last place in it.
“They depend on how low the battery is,” explains the doctor. - If it does not work properly, then the thermometer does not show the exact temperature. It is difficult to track how a battery works. You can, of course, check. Measure the temperature first with mercury, then electronic. If the results match, you can use it.
Infrared thermometers are good because they measure in a non-contact way. Pointed the “gun” at the forehead, after 5 seconds the result. One minus is that they are expensive - from 2-3 thousand and above.
“If you decide to buy such a device, keep in mind that these thermometers need to be measured at three points,” says Evgeniy Timakov. – Where the large vessels are – the temple, wrists and armpits. And then you calculate the average result. This will be more accurate. When purchasing such a device, ask to see the calibration certificate. If it is there, then you can trust the thermometer.
In first place in the ranking is the well-known mercury thermometer. The most accurate. Until recently, it was produced in Russia only at one enterprise in Klin according to strict GOST standards. The system was so tested that it was very difficult to miscalibrate the thermometer.
WHERE DID THE MERCURY THERMOMETERS DISAPPEAR?
But there are no mercury thermometers in pharmacies. And for a long time now.
“This is because Russia has signed the Minamata Convention, which prohibits the use of mercury-containing devices (the document was adopted in 2014 and came into force in 2020), says Dmitry Korneev, director of the first thermometer plant. – Mercury is recognized as a dangerous substance, and therefore the most accurate thermometers in Russia will no longer be available. If you find it in pharmacies, know that these are just leftovers from pharmaceutical warehouses. Very rare!
Unlike electronic mercury ones, they never lied, because they were tested with an accuracy of one hundredth and were accepted by state experts. There is no such system with electronic and infrared devices. They do not undergo mandatory state acceptance and verification. And therefore you cannot trust them. And now we can only measure body temperature in the old grandmother’s way - by touch, putting our palm to our forehead.
Officially, “There is no mandatory verification of thermal imagers in the country”
“Verification of electronic and infrared thermometers is a popular service among metrological institutes and the Center for Standardization of Metrology and Testing of Rosstandart,” the department’s press service told me. — The main list of customers includes manufacturers of these products and medical institutions. It is important to note that the means of measuring the so-called “fast reading” are thermal imagers, non-contact thermometers, etc. are not subject to state regulation and are verified on a voluntary basis.
— How can you check whether the device has passed verification or not?
— Currently, verification results are confirmed by an electronic entry in the Rosstandart register (FSIS “Arshin”), only this entry has legal confirmation of the verification results of any measuring instrument. The procedure is quite simple - the accredited organization carries out verification and enters information into the FSIS "Arshin" system, which appears in the register within about 15 minutes after its entry.
Author's comment: I tried to check my new electronic thermometer on the FSIS "Arshin" website. But in the “Verification Information” section you need to indicate the inventory number of the product, and it is not on the thermometer. Or rather, there is a registration number there, but it does not get through the Arshina database. That is, either the device was not verified, or it was verified, but under a different inventory number from the invoice. In general, you can only be confident in temperature meters that are located in medical institutions, because verification is mandatory for them. And the verification of thermometers from pharmacy suppliers is their responsibility.
—
Which thermometer is better: mercury or electronic?
Despite the convenience of using electronic gadgets, mercury thermometers still remain in demand.
Let's look at their pros and cons in comparison.
Positive characteristics
| Mercury | Electronic |
| Minimum reading error | Safety in use |
| Resetting the previous reading by shaking | Unbreakable plastic housing |
| Low price | Measuring speed |
| Hygienic, easy to handle | Additional functions - backlight, sound signal, etc. |
| Unlimited service life | Auto shutdown |
| Different ways to measure temperature | Can be used by children from birth |
| Contact and non-contact method of temperature measurement |
Both thermometers have positive characteristics.
When choosing, you need to consider what is most important. For example, for newborns, a non-contact method for determining hyperthermia is preferable. Negative characteristics
| Mercury | Electronic |
| Breakable body - glass | Disinfection is difficult |
| Dangerous substance - mercury | Large error if used incorrectly |
| Measurement duration 8-10 minutes | The need to monitor the battery charge level and change it in time |
| Not recommended for use by small children | It is necessary to study the instructions in detail |
Both types of thermometers deserve attention: electronic for their safety, mercury for their measurement accuracy. With careful use, a mercury thermometer can last for decades and does not require a charged battery.
However, there is a risk of mercury vapor poisoning if the glass case breaks. Many mothers keep a mercury device as a standard for the correct result, but use the electronic version for its intended purpose.
Types of thermometers
“The principle of operation of any thermometer is the transformation of heat into readings on a scale. For this purpose, there are both conventional mercury thermometers and more modern electronic, infrared ones. Each thermometer has its own priority area of application. And each has its own pros and cons.
A classic of the genre is mercury thermometers. Until recently, we had no idea about others. This is one of the most accurate measurement options, the error does not exceed 0.1 degrees. But they have disadvantages. They are fragile and short-lived. They can easily break. And the danger of mercury inside is also high.
There are galinstan thermometers, where instead of mercury there are metal alloys: gallium, indium and tin. This mixture of metals is called galinstan. It is safe; breaking such a thermometer is not scary. But they have a disadvantage - they are difficult to use. To “knock it down” you need to shake it very hard, it really requires a lot of effort, and, as a rule, you have to shake for a long time.
Electronic ones are a completely different matter. They look beautiful too. But contrary to the existing myth, they can also break. So they also need to be handled with care,” says general practitioner, cardiologist, endocrinologist Tatyana Romanenko .
Evening temperature. Is this normal or pathological? More details
Review of popular thermometers
Let's consider the characteristics of electronic models for measuring temperature:
| Name | pros | Minuses | Addition |
| B.Well WT-03 Family | 1. Change accuracy 2. Waterproof housing 3. Convenient display 4. Auto shutdown 5. Memory | High price | Manufactured by the Swiss company B.Well |
| AND DT-501 | 1. Replaceable battery 2. Memory 3. Auto power off 4. Waterproof housing 5. Rectal and oral measurement speed - minute | 1. No backlight 2. Small error | The disadvantages are compensated by the low cost of the gadget |
| Thermal Standard | 1. Measurement accuracy 2. Replaceable battery 3. Memory 4. Auto power off 5. Sound signal 6. Measurement speed | 1. Quiet beep 2. No display backlight | The low price compensates for some of the device's shortcomings |
| Omron Eco Temp Basic | 1. Simplicity of the device 2. Sound signal 3. Low price | 1. Large error 2. No backlight 3. Small display 4. Sealed battery | Budget model for the whole family |
| Little Doctor LD-300 | 1. Measuring speed 2. Waterproof housing 3. Replaceable battery 4. Memory 5. Convenient display | 1. Error in readings | The verification measurement must be carried out on the same area of the body, at the same angle of inclination and for the same time. |
Infrared models, comparison:
| Name | pros | Minuses | Addition |
| Xiaomi iHealth Meter Thermometer | 1. Measurement speed 2. Minimum error 3. Distance sensor 4. Backlight 5. Vibration sound signal 6. Multifunctionality 7. Auto shutdown | High price | A universal device for determining the temperature of body, liquid, air |
| Medisana TM 750 | 1. Speed of operation 2. Replaceable battery 3. Backlight 4. Temperature of objects 5. Memory 30 cells 6. Compact body | 1. Contact device 2. Error 3. Complex instructions | The time and date of measurements are stored in memory |
| Sensitec NF-3101 | 1. Non-contact 2. Minimum error 3. Backlight 4. Large memory 5. Replaceable batteries | 1. Does not detect air temperature 2. Sharp sound signal 3. Error in a humid environment | Measures the temperature of objects and water |
| ENDEVER TEMP-03 | 1. High accuracy 2. Auto power off 3. Non-contact 4. Color indication 5. 32 cell memory | 1. Calibration required 2. Display does not light up | Measures the temperature of various surfaces, air and water |
| B.Well WF-1000 | 1. High accuracy 2. Speed 3. Auto power off 4. Large memory capacity | 1. Contact measurement method 2. No backlight 3. Error in a humid environment | The ability to determine the temperature at the temple, in the auricle, on the forehead |
The purchased thermometer shows 1.5 degrees less (35.1 instead of 36.6), what can be done to change the calibration? Igor, Omsk
Dear Igor, first of all, thank you for choosing our electronic thermometer. Unfortunately, you did not indicate the model of the device, so I cannot give you exact quotes from the instruction manual for your particular model. I'll use the classic instructions for an electronic thermometer. First, a few words about the operating principle of an electronic thermometer. Unlike the classic mercury one, where the temperature is indicated due to the increase in the volume of mercury when heated, which by and large makes it unimportant how it is held, you can even cross it under the arm, this will not change anything, in electronic ones the sensor is located at the end and only heating of this part affects the temperature (the resistance of the conductor changes depending on the temperature) in the rest of the thermometer only the wires. Thus, you need to look very carefully at how temperature is measured. The tip should be “stuck into the meat” i.e. firmly “stick” it into the armpit and press firmly with your hand. If the contact is not tight or the sensor is partially free, the temperature will be lower. Further. The instructions state that “The beep does not indicate the completion of the measurement. This means your temperature rises, but only slightly. We recommend holding the thermometer for a few more seconds after the signal.” If we translate this into simple language, then after the thermometer beeps, you need to take it out, look at the temperature, hold it there (to be sure for another minute), then look at the readings and remember the difference. And in the future add this difference to the measurement so as not to wait extra time. Usually the difference is 0.3-0.4 degrees. but the first time you need to check it. Thus, an incorrect measurement technique and early removal of the thermometer can give an “error” of 1.5 degrees. But if used correctly there will be no problems. If you are in doubt about the accuracy of the thermometer reading, there is a fantastically simple test - pour a glass of warm water at about body temperature. Or a hot bath. Place the mercury and the tip of an electronic thermometer there. The data will be the same after 3 minutes. This will give you the opportunity to judge how well the thermometer is working. If this test shows that there are problems with the thermometer, contact the service center. I'm sure they can help you. This all applies to the classic electronic thermometer. If you have an infrared thermometer, then write. I will tell you how to properly maintain and measure with this device. I am sure that all problems can be solved.
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How to choose an electronic thermometer
Pharmacies and the Internet offer a wide selection of electronic gadgets for determining hyperthermia in children and adults. Which model to choose, what to pay attention to?
Recommendations for selection:
- a contact thermometer is almost a classic, it should be in any family;
- a non-contact thermometer is suitable for caring for newborns - it will detect hyperthermia, show the temperature of the milk formula, water in the bath and the air in the room;
- the waterproof plastic case allows you to wash the gadget under running water;
- flexible tips of the gadget are more suitable for small children, gold-plated ones are used for allergy sufferers;
- large displays should be chosen by people with poor vision; display backlight allows you to see information in a dark room;
- for the little ones it is preferable to choose thermometers in the form of toys;
- Battery type - sealed or replaceable.
If the battery is replaceable, the gadget will last for many years. If sealed, such a thermometer is safe for a small child, but the shelf life is determined by the battery charge. Children may accidentally open the case and remove the small battery. It is very dangerous.
The waterproof case is universal - it measures the temperature of water, air, and the human body. Useful for caring for babies; you can control the heating of water in the bathtub.
Price range
The cost of a thermometer is sometimes critical. The simpler the device and functionality, the lower the price.
Up to 500 rubles
In this price segment, you can choose conventional electronic thermometers with a minimal set of functions, but accurate measurement results. Many models are equipped with display backlight, sound signal and auto shut-off.
From 500 to 1000 rubles
In this price segment you can choose classic electronic devices, but with additional functionality and an unusual design. For example, a thermometer in the form of a pacifier.
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Features of an electronic thermometer
Modern thermometers are distinguished by the presence of a special sensor, which is located on the narrow part of the thermometer. After the temperature measurement is completed, the result will be displayed on the display in the form of numbers. Therefore, the second name of the device is a digital thermometer.
When choosing an electronic device, you should pay attention to its strengths and weaknesses. Positive qualities include:
- Safety. It does not contain mercury, so it cannot cause harm to health. Suitable for use by both adults and children of any age.
- Versatility. An electronic thermometer can measure temperature using various methods. For example, orally, rectally, in the armpit, elbow or groin.
- Speed. The procedure usually does not take much time. On average, it takes about 30-60 seconds to obtain reliable data.
- Comfort. You can recognize the end of the temperature measurement process by the sound signal that the device emits.
- Simplicity. The measurement result will be displayed on a special display. A person will just have to look at the scoreboard.
- Economical. The device will turn off automatically a few minutes after use. This will help save battery.
The market is filled with various medical thermometers that can be equipped with additional functions. The most popular and popular include:
- presence of built-in memory. That is, the device automatically stores the latest readings, which will help a person analyze changes in their own body temperature. Some models remember up to 30 measurements;
- waterproof case. This function allows young mothers to measure not only the body temperature of their newborn baby, but also determine the degree of heating of the water that will be used for bathing;
- switching the scale from the Celsius to Fahrenheit measuring system;
- display backlight. This will help you see the thermometer readings even at night, without getting out of bed to turn on the light;
- changing the tip.
So that little children are not afraid to measure their temperature, manufacturers have developed special thermometers. They appear to be shaped like toys or painted in bright colors. For newborns, you can purchase nipple-shaped thermometers. They greatly simplify the temperature measurement procedure.
Baby thermometers
In addition to the positive qualities, the equipment also has several negative aspects. Among them:
- Some models are afraid of moisture, so they should not be wet.
- The electronic thermometer usually needs to be held for several minutes after the sound signal. This is not very convenient, since additional time must be recorded.
- The cost of a good electronic device is slightly higher than that of a mercury thermometer.
In addition, when purchasing a device for a newborn, remember that it can only be used until the first teeth appear.
To ensure that the data is as accurate and correct as possible, it is imperative to follow all the manufacturer’s instructions and advice, which are indicated on the equipment packaging and in the attached instructions.
Package
Mercury or electronic
Despite the ease of use and variety of types of electronic models, mercury devices still remain in demand. If handled with care, mercury thermometers can be used for years, which is why many people have had these devices lying around in their medicine cabinets since Soviet times. A similar home thermometer is a glass case with a column of mercury inside. A temperature scale is engraved on the glass. One device contains approximately 2 mg of mercury.
The operating principle of the device is based on the physical properties of mercury: it can expand when the temperature rises. Accordingly, if a thermometer is applied to a body with a high temperature, the mercury column will creep up and stop at the desired value. The probability of error is extremely small, which means the reliability of the readings is high.
But one cannot categorically state which device for measuring temperature is more accurate, mercury or electronic. Both types of devices have their advantages and disadvantages.
Mercury thermometer
- measurement accuracy - error 0.1-0.2 degrees;
- to “reset” the previous measurement, just shake the thermometer;
- cheap (within 100 rubles);
- hygienic, easy to disinfect;
- long service;
- Possible oral, rectal and axillary administration.
- the glass case is easy to break;
- inside there is mercury - a toxic substance, the vapors of which are very dangerous to health;
- long measuring time (to get an accurate result, you need to hold the device for about 7 minutes);
- Not recommended for use by children.
Electronic thermometer
- safety of use;
- unbreakable plastic case;
- quick display of results;
- additional functions (charge indicator, backlight, double scales);
- different designs;
- possibility of auto shutdown;
- can be used by children from birth.
- inconvenient to wash and disinfect;
- error more than 0.1 degrees;
- the need to carefully follow the instructions;
- Regular battery replacement.
