Digital thermometers are more common than glass ones.It's better to use a thermometer without glass if you have a choice.Mercury is poisonous and glass thermometers with it are no longer recommended.If you only have a glass thermometer, take precautions to make sure it's safe.
Step 1: Don't use a mercury-laden glass thermometer.
A non-mercury glass Thermometer is safer if you have the option.It's a good idea to read the package to find out if it contains mercury or not.A non-mercury thermometer can't leak mercury.If you inspect the thermometer to make sure there are no cracks or leaks, it should be safe.
Step 2: You can choose between a rectal or oral thermometer.
The tips on these thermometers make them more comfortable for the person or child who's temperature you're taking.There are two types of rectal and oral thermometers, a rounded tip and a longer, narrow tip.They're usually red for anal and green for oral on the other end.You can read the packaging to find out what you have.
Step 3: It's a good idea to clean the thermometer with soap and water.
To clean it, use cool water and any kind of hand soap or dish soap and rub it up and down on the thermometer.To get rid of soap, rinse it thoroughly under running water.Don't use hot water to cook.You can wash the thermometer with rubbing alcohol and then rinse it off.
Step 4: The temperature should be lowered by shaking the thermometer.
After you take a temperature, glass thermometers don't always reset themselves.Take it away from the tip and swing it back and forth.It needs to be under the average body temperature to make sure it goes down.
Step 5: If the person is under 5 years old, take a rectal temperature.
The tip needs to be Lubricated.Place the child on their back.Push the tip into the rectum, going about 1.5 to 2.5 cm in.If it feels blocked, never force it in.You don't want to go deeper into their body if you hold it in place the whole time.The baby or child should be held still.You shouldn't put a glass thermometer in a child's mouth because it could lead to glass shards and mercury in their mouths.The rectal temperature is the most accurate for children.
Step 6: The easiest way to take a child's temperature is to put the thermometer under the armpit.
You can use an oral or rectal thermometer for this type.The person's arm should be lifted so that the tip of the thermometer can be seen.The person should hold their arm against their body.Depending on the age of the person, you should check the temperature again with a rectal or oral reading, as those are more accurate.
Step 7: Children over the age of 5 should use an oral thermometer.
Under the person's tongue is the tip of the thermometer.They should put it in place while the temperature is warm.It can be difficult for some kids to hold it in place.
Step 8: For the right amount of time, leave the thermometer in place.
The location affects the amount of time.It's enough time if you're using a rectal thermometer.Take the temperature in the mouth or under the arm for 3-4 minutes.As this could affect the reading, try not to shake the thermometer as you pull it out.
Step 9: You can read the numbers if you hold the thermometer vertically.
The end of the liquid is in front of you.Look for the long lines, which show 1 F (1C) each, and the smaller lines.If you need to, count the small lines at the end of the liquid.If the end of the liquid goes past the larger mark by 2 smaller lines, the temperature is 100.4 F.
Step 10: Determine if the person is sick.
If it's 100.4F (38.0C) when taken in the rectum, it will be the temperature you or your child will have when you take it.These are the minimum temperatures for a high temperature.If your child is under 3 months old, you should call the doctor.If your child is 3-6 months old and is running a temperature of 102 F, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor.No matter how high it goes, contact your doctor.If your child's temperature is more than a day old, you should call your doctor.If your child is showing signs of sickness, such as coughing, call.If you have an older child or adult, you should go to the doctor.
Step 11: Before putting it away, make sure the thermometer is clean.
It's a good idea to wash it with cool water and soap and focus on the tip.When you're done, rinse it with water.If you don't clean it, it could be a breeding ground for germs.