The Medical Thermometer, often referred to as a Clinical Thermometer, is an essential instrument used by healthcare professionals and in households to measure the body temperature of humans and animals. Depending on the type and design, thermometers can be used in various parts of the body to get an accurate temperature reading.
The need to monitor body temperature is vital as it can indicate various health conditions. An elevated temperature, or fever, may signify an infection or another medical condition, while a temperature below the average can indicate hypothermia.
There are multiple types of medical thermometers, each suited to a specific method of temperature measurement:
Oral or Sub-lingual Temperature: The tip of the thermometer is placed beneath the tongue. It's a commonly used method because of its accessibility and accuracy. File:Thermometer (Oral Glass).pngAn oral thermometer.
Axillary Temperature: Here, the thermometer is placed in the armpit, making it a non-invasive and safe method, especially for children. However, it might be slightly less accurate than other methods. File:2023 Termometr kuchenny.jpgUsing an axillary thermometer.
Rectal Temperature: This involves inserting the thermometer into the rectum via the anus. It is considered very accurate and is especially used for infants, but it might be uncomfortable. File:Thermometer (Rectal Glass).pngA rectal thermometer.
Tympanic Temperature: A special thermometer is used to measure the temperature inside the ear canal. It's swift and less invasive but requires correct positioning for accuracy. File:Digital IR-Thermometer.jpgA tympanic thermometer.
Temporal Temperature: These thermometers scan the temporal artery on the forehead. It's non-invasive, quick, and especially useful for children. File:Infrared thermometer (Innovo).jpgMeasuring using a temporal thermometer.
Early medical thermometers were mercury-in-glass, but due to the hazardous nature of mercury and the risk of glass breakage, digital and infrared thermometers have become more prevalent. These modern thermometers offer faster readings, memory functions, and even connectivity to apps and other devices.
Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer. Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
.png){kind=link}
.png){kind=link}
.jpg){kind=link}
.svg){kind=link}