Medical thermometer

A Medical thermometer (pronounced: /ˈmɛdɪkəl θərˈmɒmɪtər/) is a device used to measure the body temperature of a person. It is an essential tool in the field of medicine and healthcare.

Etymology

The term "thermometer" originates from the Greek words "thermo" meaning heat and "meter" meaning to measure. The prefix "medical" is derived from the Latin "medicus" which means physician.

Types of Medical Thermometers

There are several types of medical thermometers, each designed for specific uses. These include:

Oral thermometer: This is placed under the tongue to measure body temperature.
Rectal thermometer: This is inserted into the rectum to get a core body temperature reading.
Ear thermometer: This uses infrared technology to measure the temperature inside the ear canal.
Forehead thermometer: Also known as a temporal artery thermometer, this is swiped across the forehead to measure temperature.

Usage

Medical thermometers are used by healthcare professionals such as nurses, doctors, and medical technicians to monitor a patient's body temperature. This can help in diagnosing illnesses like fever, infection, or other health conditions.

Related Terms

Fever: A temporary increase in body temperature, often due to an illness.
Hypothermia: A medical emergency that occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce heat.
Hyperthermia: A condition caused by your body overheating, usually as a result of prolonged exposure to or physical exertion in high temperatures.