As nurses is important to know the different types of basic tools in the different situations of this profession, in this case we know the types of thermometers:
Digital thermometers
Digital thermometers
You can get the fastest and most
accurate results with a digital thermometer. They are available in many shapes
and sizes at different locations, such as grocery stores and pharmacies. Be
sure to read the instructions given to you with the thermometer so that you can
get the most accurate results; this also goes for any other type of thermometer
you may use. There is a sensor on the end of the thermometer that touches the
body part and reads the body’s temperature. You can use a digital thermometer
in three ways:
Electronic ear
thermometer
This thermometer measures the temperature inside of the
ear. It will read the infrared heat that comes from inside of the ear. Make
sure place the thermometer inside of the ear in the right way for the best
results. For older babies and children they can be quicker and easier to use.
If the baby is three months or younger the results might be incorrect. If there
is too much wax in the ear it can also make the reading of the temperature be
incorrect. Ear thermometers are also more expensive.
Forehead thermometers
This is also used to measure temperature, but they may not
be as reliable as the digital thermometers. Forehead thermometers are placed on
the temporal artery of the forehead and will read the infrared heat that comes
off of the head.
Plastic “fever” strip
thermometers
If you are looking for an exact temperature this is NOT
what you should use. They come in small plastic strips and you place them on
the forehead. You cannot rely on these for taking a temperature, especially for
infants and young children.
Pacifier thermometer
When an infant is younger than three months you cannot use
a pacifier thermometer to take their temperature. The baby must be still for a
few minutes with the pacifier in their mouth. It is generally very hard for
babies to stay very still and this may make the reading on the thermometer
wrong.
Glass and mercury thermometers
This is a glass tube with mercury inside of the tube. The
tube goes underneath the tongue and the body temperature will cause the mercury
to rise inside the tube. The point where the mercury stops will be what your
temperature is. Once, a very popular way to take a temperature, it has been
realized that these thermometers now create the risk of exposure to mercury.
You are encouraged to rid your home of all mercury thermometers. DO NOT just
throw away a mercury thermometer. You should consult with your doctor or your
local health department for the right way to dispose of the thermometer.