Medical thermometer

Medical Thermometer

The Medical Thermometer, often referred to as a Clinical Thermometer, is an essential instrument used by healthcare professionals and in households to measure the body temperature of humans and animals. Depending on the type and design, thermometers can be used in various parts of the body to get an accurate temperature reading.

Different types of medical thermometers.

Reading a mercury-in-glass medical thermometer.

Background

The need to monitor body temperature is vital as it can indicate various health conditions. An elevated temperature, or fever, may signify an infection or another medical condition, while a temperature below the average can indicate hypothermia.

Types and Methods of Measurement

There are multiple types of medical thermometers, each suited to a specific method of temperature measurement:

• Oral or Sub-lingual Temperature: The tip of the thermometer is placed beneath the tongue. It's a commonly used method because of its accessibility and accuracy.
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  An oral thermometer.

• Axillary Temperature: Here, the thermometer is placed in the armpit, making it a non-invasive and safe method, especially for children. However, it might be slightly less accurate than other methods.
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  Using an axillary thermometer.

• Rectal Temperature: This involves inserting the thermometer into the rectum via the anus. It is considered very accurate and is especially used for infants, but it might be uncomfortable.
  

  A rectal thermometer.

• Tympanic Temperature: A special thermometer is used to measure the temperature inside the ear canal. It's swift and less invasive but requires correct positioning for accuracy.
  

  A tympanic thermometer.

• Temporal Temperature: These thermometers scan the temporal artery on the forehead. It's non-invasive, quick, and especially useful for children.
  

  Measuring using a temporal thermometer.

Evolution and Technology

Early medical thermometers were mercury-in-glass, but due to the hazardous nature of mercury and the risk of glass breakage, digital and infrared thermometers have become more prevalent. These modern thermometers offer faster readings, memory functions, and even connectivity to apps and other devices.

Precautions

• Always ensure the thermometer is clean before and after use.
• When using rectally, never use the same thermometer orally without thorough sterilization.
• Ensure the correct usage of the thermometer, especially the tympanic type, as incorrect positioning can lead to inaccurate readings.

See Also

• Fever
• Hypothermia
• Digital Thermometer
• Infrared Thermometer

References

• Mackowiak, P. A. Concepts of Fever: Recent Advances and Lingering Dogma. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 1997; 25(1): 119-138.
• Mayo Clinic: How to choose the right thermometer.

Medical thermometer Resources
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