Thermometers are essential in many workplace environments where temperature control is crucial. For example, in hospitals and clinics.
There are several types of medical thermometers available, but most are designed to take readings through the rectum or the mouth. There are also ear thermometers that use infrared technology to measure the temperature of the ear canal.
Digital thermometers are typically more accurate than mercury thermometers. They are simple, easy to use, and offer faster results. The best thing about this type of thermometer is that they are safer.
Earlier, mercury thermometers were more accurate than digital ones. However, with technological development, electronic thermometers are able to match the same accuracy. However, make sure you buy a high-quality digital thermometer. At Caretek, you will find the best digital thermometers for accurate results.
To learn more about the accuracy of digital thermometers, continue reading.
Accuracy of a Digital Thermometer
The accuracy of any device depends on many factors, including the material used to sense temperature, the quality of the device itself, and how it is calibrated.
Digital thermometers rely on heat sensors that detect the temperature of the body. These thermometers can be used to measure oral, rectum, or armpit temperatures.
While digital thermometers are arguably remarkable measurement instruments, they are also highly dependent on the accuracy and reliability of the numerical procedures that transform resistance or voltage measurements into temperature. The uncertainty component of these calculations is significant and must be very well-controlled.
A good thermometer should have a fast response, high precision, and low measurement error. Body temperature is one of the vital signs which reflect an individual’s physical status. It is an essential parameter for medical practitioners to measure.
Unlike traditional mercury thermometers, which need several minutes to settle before displaying a reading, digital thermometers display a read in the time indicated in their packaging or product specification. These devices can measure temperatures as small as 0.04% of a degree Celsius.
Temperature Readings with a Digital Thermometer
Temperature readings with a digital thermometer are the best way to record a person’s temperature. They can be taken orally, rectally, or under the arm.
Oral ReadingsDigital oral thermometers are the most convenient and accurate way to take your temperature. They have a sensor (tip) at the end that reads your body’s temperature, and they come in different shapes and sizes. Gently place the tip of the thermometer under one side of your child’s tongue toward the back of their mouth and then close their lips over it until you hear a beep or similar sound.
- Armpit Readings
An armpit (axillary) temperature is usually about 1 degree lower than an oral temperature. It is less accurate than a rectal or ear temperature, so you may want to use a different method if you think an armpit reading might be inaccurate. To use a thermometer for an axillary temperature, remove your child’s shirt and place the tip of the thermometer under the armpit.
- Rectal Readings
Rectal readings with a digital thermometer are generally recommended by pediatricians and other healthcare providers for infants and young children (up to 3 years of age). In addition, if you’re worried about your child having a fever, rectal temperature is the most accurate way to check their temperature. Taking rectal temperatures is very simple.
Conclusion
Taking a body temperature is an important healthcare task. It can help you detect fever, which is a serious condition. Because of this reason, it is important to invest in a high-quality digital thermometer. They are more accurate and provide correct readings. At Caretek, you will get digital thermometers that give accurate results. If you want to know how to use a digital thermometer, click here.
