Did you know that the type of thermometer varies? Each thermometer has its advantages, by measuring the temperature that can be different. So that you don't choose and use it wrong, let's get to know the type of thermometer and how to measure temperature precisely.
Thermometers on the market are digital and some still use mercury as a measure of body temperature. The use of thermometers in measuring body temperature also varies, some are placed in the mouth, on the forehead, in the ear, or plugged into the rectum.
Types of Thermometers
There are various types of thermometers that can be used to measure body temperature. Here are a few:
1. Digital thermometer
Digital thermometer made of plastic material and shaped like a pencil. Usually this thermometer uses an electronic heat sensor to record body temperature either through the mouth, armpits, or rectum. Digital thermometers used to measure temperature through the rectum are generally more elastic.
2. Digital ear thermometer
Ear digital thermometer or tympanic thermometer, is a thermometer that uses infrared light to measure the temperature in the ear canal, precisely in the eardrum (tympanic membrane).
To use this thermometer, you only need to aim the infrared sensor right at the ear hole. However, make sure the ears are clean because if blocked ear wax, temperature measurement results can be inaccurate.
3. Digital dot thermometer
Digital dot thermometer has a shape similar to a pacifier or pacifier, making it suitable for use by children who are still using a pacifier. How to use it is also easy. Little just need to suck the thermometer pacifier for 3 minutes to get accurate body temperature results.
4. Forehead thermometer
This thermometer uses infrared to measure the temperature in the forehead area and temporal arteries in the temples. Although it can provide fast results, this type of thermometer can not be said to have an accuracy level equivalent to ordinary digital thermometers. In addition, the forehead thermometer also has a more expensive price than other types of thermometers.
5. Mercury thermometer
This type of thermometer is probably one of the most common types of thermometers. Shaped glass tube containing silver liquid metal (mercury). Exposure to heat from body temperature will increase the height of mercury in the tube until it reaches a point that indicates body temperature.
Even though it is cheap, mercury thermometers are no longer recommended for use. Because, this thermometer is easily broken, besides that the mercury that comes out of the thermometer tube is volatile and inhaled. This risks causing poisoning.
Things to Look for when Using a Thermometer
To get accurate results, there are things that must be considered when using a thermometer, namely:
- Normal body temperature is 36.5 - 37 degrees Celsius.
- Do not use the thermometer immediately after eating, drink hot or cold liquids, and smoke. Wait for about 20-30 minutes so that the results obtained are more accurate.
- After exercising and taking a hot shower, do not directly measure body temperature using a thermometer. Give a time delay of about one hour.
- If using the mouth thermometer, place the thermometer under the tongue and close the lips tightly.
- When measuring the temperature, leave the thermometer on for a few moments until you hear an alarm signal the temperature measurement is complete or until the mercury stops at a temperature point.
- Before and after each use, don't forget to wash the thermometer with clean water and soap or alcohol before storing it again.
If after measuring with a thermometer, your body temperature is more than 38 degrees Celsius or less than 35 degrees Celsius, you should immediately see a doctor. The doctor will conduct an examination and provide treatment in accordance with your condition or disease.
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