What Are Your Thermometer Options?
The temperature of the blood is being measured when body temperature is being checked. The equipment being used will effect the accuracy of the reading, as will the location of the body where the temperature is checked. There are the classic thermometers, however recently the temporal thermometer has come out as well.
Before proceeding to use a thermometer, it’s always very important to read the manufacturer’s instructions. Specific operating instructions will be given, and it may also be necessary to calibrate the thermometer before the first use or even before every use.
Many thermometers beep when they are completed, and some let you store readings over a period of time. However, some require you to clear out the previous measurement before doing a new one. Manufacturers also provide specific instructions on how to clean and sterilize your thermometer.
There are a number of helpful note in the instruction guides for these tools, such as suggestions about when not to take someone’s temperature. Times when a temperature can be most misleading are right after strenuous exercise, after a bath or after eating or drinking.
When taking an oral reading, the temperature of the blood in the bottom of the tongue is what the reading is based on. You should allow at least fifteen minutes after eating before testing the child’s temperature orally. When the thermometer is in place, the child should hold it steady with his or her tongue and lips, taking care not to actually bite down on the thermometer. Three to four minutes will be required for an accurate measurement.
Doing an Axillary Reading: This is a measurement of the temperature of the blood in the axillary artery, in the armpit. Using your fingertips, you can feel for the position of this artery. It’s best to remove the child’s shirt or top first, then place the end of the thermometer directly over the artery. Help the child to fold their arm across their chest to hold the thermometer in place. As with oral readings, 3 - 4 minutes is typically enough time; digital thermometers, however, usually beep when they are complete.
Doing a Rectal Reading (if necessary): Use an appropriate lubricant to lubricate the end of the thermometer. If the manufacturer’s instructions do not recommend one, ask your pharmacist. Have the child lie down on a flat, comfortable surface, such as a changing table, a bed, or even your lap with an infant. With your hand gently but firmly near the base of the spine to hold the child still, gently insert the thermometer approximately one inch into the anus; you should feel no resistance–if there is resistance, stop–do not try to force the thermometer in. Hold the thermometer between your thumb and index finger, with your hand cupped around the child’s bottom. to keep it in place until the reading is complete.
Casey has written other articles on thermometers, check out his sites: infrared thermometer gun and exergen thermometer.
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