Thermometers
Whether cold and flu season is on the way or not, it's never to soon to protect you and your family. Investing in a thermometer  is especially important for families with children although thermometers are also useful for adults and seniors. Why keep a thermometer on hand? Fever is the result of an underlying problem, usually a sign that the body is trying to fight off an infection or illness. While body temperature fluctuates throughout the day on its own, when it gets too high it could be a sign of a more serious problem. For children especially, a high fever (usually 103°F or higher) accompanied by fatigue, irratibility, loss of appetite or paleness, may justify a trip to the doctor. Having a thermometer on hand is a tool that parents can use to determine whether a child's illness is something to worry about or not. The same goes for adults. A thermometer simply acts as a self-diagnosis tool to determine the severity of the sickness.
Choosing a Thermometer
There are a few basic things to consider when choosing a thermometer. Most importantly, it should be accurate. The more precise, the better. Besides that, a thermometer should be easy to use and comfortable. Comfort usually is more of an issue when dealing with children who tend to be more finicky about having their temperature taken. For most adults, a basic, inexpensive oral thermometer will do the trick. For children, you may want to consider another style thermometer. As far as price goes, don't expect that you will get more bang for your buck from a more expensive model. The inexpensive models are typically better performers than their pricey counterparts.
Thermometer Types- Oral Thermometers
- Oral thermometers are widely recognized as being the best performing type of thermometer for both children and adults. And, when it comes to deciding between the traditional mercury thermometer or digital oral thermometers, the glass thermometer is by far the most accurate around -- whether used orally or rectally. The only problem is that it takes longer to get results with a standard thermometer.
- Oral thermometers outperform ear thermometers for both precision and ease of use. Oral thermometers are also the style of choice when compared to forehead thermometers, which tend to be poorly constructed, more expensive and substantially less precise.
- Digital Thermometers
- Digital thermometers that feature large displays are easier to read, which may be more convenient. These thermometers also tend to give results much quicker than standard thermometers.
- Accuracy can suffer when batteries start to run low.
- There are a variety of digital thermometers including oral, ear, underarm and rectal.
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Digital Oral Thermometer
Simple and easy to use, these are accurate, quick and convenient. Whereas mercury thermometers used to be commonplace the risks associated with toxic mercury have made digital thermometers the preferred style of choice for most consumers today. |
Ear Thermometer
These are fast (readings only take a few seconds) but they are less precise, mainly because it is hard to position them properly in the ear canal. Good for a toddler or child who is fidgety or who can't hold an oral thermometer in his or her mouth. It is NOT recommended for babies less than three months old. |
Forehead Thermometer
These are less common, more expensive and less precise than either ear or oral thermometers. They are quick, painless and non-intrusive though, which can be a plus when testing a child's temperature. |
Disposable Thermometer
Not very common and not the most precise. Vicks is the only major maker of these thermometers. Nonetheless, they are not bad performers for a one shot deal. |
Baby Thermometers
There are a number of different thermometer styles that are designed specifically to accommodate an infant or toddler, including pacifier thermometers and underarm thermometers. |
Video Review
Tips- Always read instructions and learn how to properly use the thermometer, regardless of which type you choose.
- For children less than three months old, try a rectal digital thermometer for the most accurate results.
- Children less than four years old may be most cooperative with an ear thermometer, although rectal thermometers are still very accurate and appropriate at this age.
- For all kids who are more than four years old, an oral thermometer is appropriate and reliable as long as they can hold it in their mouth for long enough. If they are coughing or having trouble breathing, it is best to use an ear thermometer or underarm thermometer.
- Note that detecting a "high" temperature is not the same on all body parts. Rectal temperatures will be highest, followed by oral temperatures and then underarm temperatures.
- Clean the thermometer after each use. Replace batteries regularly and store in a safe, convenient place.
External Links- KidsHealth.org: Fever and taking your child's temperature in detail with lots of helpful hints.
- CNN.com: The basics on taking your child's temperature.
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Shopping Directory
The First Years Instant Ear Thermometer
