What are the different types of thermometers available today?

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A thermometer’s a healthcare device that measures the temperature of the body. And although thermometers are a household staple, people have never felt the need to buy them or doubt their accuracy.

The right thermometer can detect a temperature in moments, which could aid in the identification of certain health concerns like infections. Thermometers are a necessity, and every household should have one on hand. The numerous types of thermometers in the market these days will be discussed in this article.

Mercury thermometers 

These are the old-fashioned thermometers that were used for a long time before being deemed dangerous. Mercury is present in these glass thermometers. The glass they use is usually very strong. However, if the glass breaks by mistake and mercury are discharged, it might be harmful. Mercury thermometers, while commonly used, are exceedingly uncomfortable, difficult to use, and require a very stringent hygiene approach due to their intrusive nature.

Thermometers with digital displays

Given stable conditions, digital thermometers, which have mostly replaced mercury, can deliver accurate results quickly. They’re easy to come by in pharmacies. Digital thermometers can be used in three different ways.

Oral: The thermometer is inserted under the person’s tongue to check the temperature. Adults and older children who can keep thermometers under their tongues for a couple of minutes can use this method. However, keep in mind that using this approach to verify temperature might be influenced by a variety of circumstances, including:

  • Before inserting them under the tongue, the person drinks anything warm or cold.
  • How far it’s inserted into the mouth. It’s warmer if it is placed deeper into the mouth.

Axillary: Thermometers are put beneath the crease of a person’s armpit to check their temperature in this approach. This procedure is useful for children and people who can’t keep them in their mouths for lengthy periods, but it’s also quite inconvenient. You’ll have to keep it in a specific posture for a longer period. This will undoubtedly be difficult for a sick child.

Rectal: The temperature of the rectum is taken by carefully putting a thermometer into it. This practice is most commonly employed with newborns and toddlers, although it is not suitable for them and can cause the child distress.

Because it is invasive, a newborn must remain motionless for an extended period, and you must undress your infant for most of the procedure. This treatment is highly uncomfortable, and you’ll need to take hygiene measurements because it’s an intrusive procedure that exposes the rectum to many bacteria.

Thermometers for temporal arteries

These thermometers are commonly used in hospitals, but they’ve become a popular option amongst parents this year due to their reliability and precision. These thermometers use the temporal artery on the person’s forehead to monitor arterial heat. In as little as 2-3 seconds, quality temporal artery thermometers can produce a precise measurement.

This non-invasive thermometer takes the temperature with a simple swipe across the brow, making it suitable for individuals of all ages, from newborns to the elderly. These modern thermometers have a soft glow light and can save up to eight readings, making it easy to read at night without waking up your child. With these thermometers, measuring temperature is a breeze.

In contemporary times, thermometers are so much more than “one of the things” in your medicine cabinet. Quality thermometers are a must-have item. If you’re still using an old thermometer, it’s time to consider the benefits listed above and invest in the ‘proper’ one to keep your loved ones safe!

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