Everything You Need to Know About Buying A Thermometer
There are several models of fever thermometer commercially available, all different and aimed at different purposes and needs of use. It is precisely based on your needs that you must orient yourself in the moment of choice. Buying a thermometer means making a real investment in your health and that of loved ones. Although these devices are often sold at low prices, the model you choose will most likely accompany you for several years. This is why it is essential to choose carefully and take the time to buy a particular model.
First, which type of thermometer do you prefer? And what is the average age of the patient who will use the device? Even the methodology chosen for the measurement will tend to vary according to the age of the users and the area of your body that you want to use to take the temperature. Other thermometer models, such as infrared ones, do not even require any physical contact!
Then there are other factors, no less important, as it is these that will then fluctuate the final price of the device. This includes the functions of the thermometer, which depend on the technology used by it and can make your life easier. Then there are the accessories, such as housings or additional probes.
However, it should be emphasized that it is often possible to buy these accessories at a later time, thus deferring the expense over time and buying only the elements you really need.
If you are looking for a thermometer to measure your children's fever, you need to consider not only the age of the little ones, but also any existing health conditions. If you have any doubts about it, the best thing is to consult your trusted pediatrician. At the same time, it is good to talk to your doctor if you have special medical needs yourself, and are therefore looking for a thermometer to help you.
How many types of fever thermometer are there?
Based on their operating principle and the methodology required to measure fever, you can choose from the following categories of thermometers:
Glass thermometer - These are the most classic and also the most fragile model, due to the material that composes it. Since 2009, the old models of glass thermometers with mercury have been completely withdrawn from the market, and now you can buy them with Galinstan, an alloy just as effective but less harmful to your health. These are very versatile models, as they can be used for oral, axillary, ear or rectal body temperature measurement.
Digital thermometer - These are the most technological models, and therefore easier to use and read. Measurements are quick, and the structure of the device is almost always robust and ergonomic. They also present no risk of injury due to glass breakage. One of the best digital thermometers is Fever Patrol. It is a touch-less, digital thermometer that is suitable for toddlers and children. Read here complete Fever Patrol review to know more about such device.
Infrared thermometer - These devices use infrared energy, which is able to detect body temperature without any contact. The advantage is therefore a faster and more practical measurement, especially in the presence of children. It really only takes seconds to get an accurate measurement.
Infrared forehead thermometer - They are infrared thermometers designed for measuring the temperature on the forehead. There is no need for skin contact, as infrared energy is collected through the device lens and converted into a reading value within seconds.
Infrared ear thermometer - In this case, infrared energy reacts to body heat emitted by the membrane near our eardrum and surrounding tissues. The readings are very accurate to read, as well as fast. In fact, a few seconds of waiting are enough to know our body temperature.
How to measure the temperature with a fever thermometer?
Remember that the data obtained with your thermometer may vary slightly based on the methodology chosen, as well as various external factors. If in doubt, always consult your doctor. The following are the most common methods for measuring fever:
- Ear measurement
- Oral measurement
- Rectal measurement
- Front measurement
- Axillary measurement
Not all measurements are suitable for every subject, especially in the presence of children. Also, not all commercially available fever thermometer models can be used indiscriminately in all ways. Some, in fact, are specifically designed to work only with certain types of measurement.
Whichever type of detection you choose, always remember to clean your skin before proceeding, and to disinfect the thermometer probe before and after the operation. In the case of some thermometer models, it is even possible to buy disposable caps. This is particularly important in rectal measurements, but also in ear measurements as ear infections are very common, especially in younger children.
Conclusion
Fever is a debilitating condition, but luckily, we can keep it under control with our trusty thermometer.
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