Infrared thermometers for adults and how to use them. Which thermometer is better to choose for a newborn baby: rating of children's thermometers for measuring temperature. Medical infrared thermometer - definition

Infrared thermometers for adults and how to use them. Which thermometer is better to choose for a newborn baby: rating of children's thermometers for measuring temperature. Medical infrared thermometer - definition

An infrared thermometer is modern device, which will determine the body temperature in just a few seconds, without even touching it. Quite recently, non-contact thermometers appeared in Medtechnika Orthosalon stores and immediately became popular. After some time, buyers began to complain about inaccurate measurements.

“We bought an infrared thermometer to measure the temperature small child. It seemed to my husband that he was pointing incorrectly. Therefore, they began to test with mercury. It turned out that infrared actually overestimates the readings.”
- Oksana, buyer of the Medtechnika Orthosalon store

It is worth noting that most people use this device incorrectly, which is the main reason for inaccurate readings. In this article we will tell you how to measure temperature correctly .

Content:

Non-contact thermometer error

Manufacturers indicate in the instructions the permissible error of thermometers:

    mercury - 0.1°C

    electronic - 0.1-0.2°C

    infrared - 0.3°C

Users note that the error of the infrared thermometer sometimes reaches 0.5°C. This is already significant, isn’t it? Experts say that a sick person's body temperature can change by +/- 1°C within minutes. Mercury models take these fluctuations into account and show the maximum value. Infrared detects the temperature in 1-3 seconds, at a specific moment. That is why it is not recommended to check infrared readings with mercury.


Why does an infrared thermometer lie?

Even if we assume that you measure your temperature correctly with a non-contact thermometer, there are several more reasons for its “lies”:

    cleanliness of the sensor (it should be free of dust, scratches and stains);

    the air conditioner or heater is turned on in the room;

    the patient's forehead is wet;

    presence of cosmetics or creams in the measurement area;

    dead batteries (batteries).

If you have been using an infrared thermometer for several months and it suddenly begins to display incorrectly, we recommend that you have it checked by service center manufacturer. This way you will definitely be confident in the quality of the data.


How to use an infrared thermometer

For a non-contact thermometer to show correct result, follow some rules for its use:

    Eliminate extraneous air flows - air conditioner, fan, heater.

    Make sure that the patient has a clean forehead, without makeup or creams.

    If the person is sweating, wipe their forehead with a tissue.

    Wipe infrared sensor soft cloth to remove dust particles.

    Ask the patient to sit up straight and not move or talk during the measurement.

Brief instructions on how to correctly measure temperature with an infrared thermometer:

    Turn on the device.

Updated: 09/18/2019 23:36:27

Expert: Laila Weiss


*Review of the best sites according to the editors. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Timely detection of symptoms plays an important role in detecting any disease. Thus, one of the signs of malaise in children and adults is elevated temperature bodies. Therefore, it is important to always have a high-quality thermometer at home that shows the correct value.

How to choose an infrared thermometer

Infrared thermometers are modern development scientists and are designed in such a way that the IR radiation of the human body is converted into a temperature indicator. When choosing a device, you should be guided by the following rules:

  1. It is better to purchase a product from a trusted brand. Products from a lesser-known brand may show incorrect data.
  2. It is worth purchasing a thermometer at a specialized pharmacy and checking the device upon purchase.
  3. Important to check warranty service thermometer.

Before purchasing, you should familiarize yourself with the responses of consumers who use infrared thermometers. If parents are looking for a device for a child, you can consult a pediatrician.

  1. quality and strength of the material;
  2. correspondence of price to quality;
  3. food type;
  4. data processing speed;
  5. availability of additional functions;
  6. consumer reviews.

For convenience, the list of non-contact thermometers is divided into categories - household, children's and industrial.

Rating of the best infrared thermometers

Nomination place Name of product price
The best medical infrared thermometers household use 1 RUR 3,570
2 2,990 ₽
3 2,900 ₽
4 2 300 ₽
The best infrared thermometers for children from Aliexpress 1 1,790 RUR
2 757 RUR
3 1,396 RUR
4 760 RUR
Best Industrial Infrared Thermometers 1 RUR 3,079
2 7,485 RUR
3 7,889 RUR

The best medical infrared thermometers for household use

More and more people are purchasing IR thermometers to measure body temperature. They are convenient because they quickly show the result on the display, unlike mercury thermometers, not to mention the safety of such devices. All you have to do is choose the right device for the price.

The infrared device for measuring temperature in the ear canal has two operating modes. It instantly shows the thermal state of an adult and even infant. The device is controlled with one button. It has a replaceable battery and a protective case. There is an auto shut-off function.

Many buyers purchase this product, hoping for the statement “more expensive means better.” However, over time, some became disillusioned with the purchase. Perhaps they did not act in accordance with the proposed instructions. Still, users advise checking the operation of the device in the store. Price – 3000 rubles.

Advantages

  • auto shutdown;
  • quick result.

Flaws

  • risk of inaccuracy of indicators;
  • high price.

The NF-3101 model from Sensitec is one of the best-selling in our country. It is produced in the Netherlands. The thermometer has the function of data calibration and comparison of results. The device features a backlit LCD display and the ability to measure liquid temperature.

Buyers note the ease of use of the device, the presence of an auto-shut-off function and a choice of measurement system (Celsius or Fahrenheit). This infrared thermometer is used by medical practitioners. It is especially convenient for measuring body temperature in children, because the result appears on the display in a matter of seconds. Together with him in included case. The price ranges from 2490 to 3960 rubles. Product warranty – 12 months.

Advantages

  • multifunctionality:
  • mute and save data function;
  • used by specialists;

Flaws

  • data errors;

The next participant in the rating is called a successful incarnation advanced technology. It can be used to measure temperature human body and surrounding objects, for example, water in the bath, air in the apartment. If the indicators are normal, the device gives one signal, if not, three. At high temperature The light turns red, when normal it lights up green. The infrared thermometer comes in a convenient plastic case, which protects it from damage during transportation.

Buyers note that this device makes life much easier and saves money on purchasing a water thermometer. In addition, externally it is an attractive device with modern design. The price is quite consistent with the quality of the thermometer, which costs 2,300 rubles.

Advantages

  • ergonomic design;
  • reliable indicators;
  • multifunctionality;
  • adequate price category;
  • ease of use;
  • trouble-free operation;

Flaws

  • loud sound at the end of the measurement.

The electronic thermometer from Beurer is designed to measure body temperature and environment. The final result is displayed on the screen in a couple of seconds. The model is suitable for the whole family and has nine memory cells that monitor changes in indicators. The large display displays date and time information and battery level. The product has been awarded for design and innovation.

According to the stated characteristics, the maximum discrepancy with the indicators is 0.2 degrees. However, among buyers there are those who are dissatisfied with the purchase due to incorrect data. The thermometer weighs only 57 grams and is sold together with a protective cap for the sensor, a case, a battery and instructions. Price – 2300 rubles.

Advantages

  • three operating modes;
  • mute function;
  • instant results;
  • presence of backlight;

Flaws

  • incorrect data on sweaty or creamed skin.

The best infrared thermometers for children from Aliexpress

Today, infrared thermometers have practically replaced their mercury-based counterparts. This is evidenced by the range of products on the popular Aliexpress website. It is not so easy to understand among Chinese infrared thermometers, and their prices vary greatly. Therefore, it is worth turning to the models presented in the rating.

XIAOMI HEALTH

Xiaomi has released original model thermometers for children, which accurately measures body temperature. The measurement error varies around 0.1-0.3 degrees. This shortcoming is compensated by the fast response of the device. Using the device is very simple. At a distance of three centimeters from the forehead, press a button and wait for a vibrating response. Next, look at the result on the screen.

The design and quality of the device are aimed at comfortable holding in the hand. Reviews about the thermometer are mostly positive. More than 85 percent of buyers give the product five stars. It is worth considering that the manufacturer does not provide instructions in Russian. Therefore, you will have to look for an abstract on the Internet. The price starts from 1369 rubles.

Advantages

Flaws

  • no expressed ones.

The next participant in the rating can be proud of numerous sales and thousands of positive responses. Its success is justified by such functions as recording the last fifty measurements and turning off the sound. The large backlit LSD display evokes enthusiastic responses.

Many owners of an infrared thermometer independently set up the device and intuitively noted clear instructions, despite the lack of a Russian description. The price of the device is quite reasonable. You will have to pay about 700 rubles for the model. When purchasing a product, you should pay attention to the seller’s reputation and customer reviews.

Advantages

  • high result;
  • muting the sound (important if the child is sleeping);
  • ease of use;
  • reasonable price;
  • uninterrupted operation;

Flaws

  • no expressed ones.

The model is designed for a long service life and operates in two modes. Thanks to a special switch, it is able to measure the temperature inside the ear (for babies under one year old) and in the center of the forehead (at any age). Just press a button and scanning will begin. The device's memory stores the twelve most recent results. There are no pauses between clicks, the thermometer works without a hitch. The model comes in a bag with instructions in English.

Many buyers find this infrared device to be the best among similar products. It costs 1,362 rubles and, despite its external fragility, it works for a long time and with high quality.

Advantages

  • accuracy;
  • two operating modes;
  • stylish;
  • instant scanning;

Flaws

  • There are no obvious disadvantages.

This model is compact in size and easy to use. A small button on the body is responsible for turning it on, and the measurement procedure takes from one to two minutes. This is especially convenient for parents of small children who rarely sit in one place.

The measurement is carried out from the surface of the forehead or in the auricle. To do this you need to change the nozzle. A color indicator allows you to see whether the temperature corresponds to the norm. Deviations from the exact indicators are 0.3 degrees, but in reality this number may be higher due to improper use of the device. Price – from 687 rubles.

Advantages

  • ergonomic body;
  • compactness;
  • reasonable cost;

Flaws

  • cases of incorrect data;
  • the need to change the nozzle to change the mode.

Best Industrial Infrared Thermometers

Industrial infrared thermometers, called pyrometers, are used in diagnostics and maintenance devices in the production of plastics. They are ideal for measuring temperature in conditions where contact with the object is difficult.

The leader in the rating among pyrometers is the 59 MAX model from the famous Fluke brand, which has been the best company in the production of such devices. An infrared thermometer allows you to do your job correctly and ensures accurate measurements. He is not afraid of falls from a height of one meter. Due to its compact size and lightness, it fits easily in a tool box.

The large backlit LCD display shows information about the maximum and minimum temperatures, as well as the difference between them. The device is powered by one battery. The warranty period is one year. Price – from 3300 rubles.

Advantages

  • high accuracy results;
  • a light weight;
  • large backlit display;
  • strong body;

Flaws

The 62 MAX is built with production in mind and comes with a host of advanced features. It can withstand falls from a height of three meters and produces the most accurate results. Buyers are delighted with the special protection of the device against moisture and dust, high-precision laser technology, large backlit display. With this pyrometer, you can measure the temperature of a specific area by setting points to indicate distance. If the values ​​are outside the limits, the device will indicate alarm signal. Temperature range - from minus 30 to 500 degrees. The error is 1.5 degrees.

The model is powered by one AA battery and belongs to the premium category. The price of 62 MAX starts from 8680 rubles.

Advantages

  • compactness;
  • multifunctionality;
  • ergonomics;
  • waterproof;
  • reliability;
  • ease of use;
  • ideal measurement accuracy;

Flaws

  • relatively high price.

The rating is completed by a pyrometer from the world-famous Bosch brand. It can be used to measure the temperature and humidity in a room. The range of indicators is from minus 20 to 200 degrees. The error is one degree in one direction or another. The device runs on two AA batteries and comes in a case. Response time is half a second.

Many buyers purchased this thermometer to identify places where there is wind from the window. Using a pyrometer they can be easily eliminated. The device is useful for a dacha and apartment if you need to measure humidity. Price – from 7600 rubles.

Advantages

  • clear controls;
  • compact size;
  • data accuracy;
  • fast result processing;

Flaws

  • no expressed ones.

Attention! This rating is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

One of the most important indicators of health and excellent condition a person is his temperature. Therefore, a thermometer is an indispensable accessory to any first aid kit.

Recently, infrared thermometers are beginning to gain more and more popularity. What are they and how to use such devices?

What are the advantages of infrared thermometers?

Measuring body temperature using such a thermometer is carried out using a special sensitive element that responds to infrared radiation body and reads information from it. The measurement results are displayed on the liquid crystal display. This new product appeared on the market quite recently, but has already managed to interest many buyers.

But, like any other similar device, an infrared thermometer has its advantages and disadvantages.

The advantages of the new product under discussion are the following:

  1. Temperature measurement is very fast. The thermometer will only take a few seconds to show the result. The timing may vary, but is generally no longer than 30 seconds;
  2. This thermometer comes with removable tips. They are very easy to separate for, for example, washing and disinfection. You can also purchase additional accessories;
  3. Conveniently, these thermometers are non-contact, so you can easily measure the body temperature of even the youngest children while they sleep. In this case, the baby will not wake up or even feel anything;
  4. The composition does not contain mercury or glass, so the device can be called as safe as possible;
  5. Since such a thermometer is non-contact, it can be used to measure not only body temperature, but also water, air, etc.

But it is also worth mentioning some of the disadvantages of an infrared thermometer. Among them are the possibility of measurement errors, the possibility of injuring the eardrum when using an ear model for a child, as well as high price such products.

How accurately does it measure temperature?

As mentioned above, infrared thermometers have several disadvantages. Among them is such a significant one as possible measurement error. For accurate results, the patient should sit as straight as possible and not move. This is quite difficult if the temperature is measured in a child.

Therefore, manufacturers initially warn buyers that the possible error of such a thermometer can be up to 0.4 degrees. Significant enough for some cases. There is a risk of error if the patient turns and moves during the temperature measurement process.

What types of infrared thermometers are there?

Today, several types of infrared thermometers are known. This ear, frontal And contactless.

Based on the name of the earpiece, it is already clear that it is designed to measure body temperature through the ear canal. When purchasing such a thermometer, you should pay attention that it comes with soft disposable tips. Some manufacturers equip their products with a whole set of such add-ons. They not only protect the measuring tip membrane, but also prevent damage to the eardrums of children and adults.

It is important to add that such devices give an inaccurate result if the patient suffers from inflammation of the middle ear. In such a situation, it is better to use a different type of thermometer.

The forehead model allows you to take the desired measurement by just lightly touching the skin on the forehead or temples. Immediately after this, the readings should appear on the display.

The non-contact thermometer is ideal for measuring body temperature in newborns. If you do this in your sleep, you won’t have to wake up the baby, and the measurement will be as accurate as possible. The results will appear on the screen in a couple of seconds. In this case, you do not need to touch the patient; the thermometer is brought to the temporal lobe at a distance of approximately 2 centimeters. This is enough for the device to read the necessary information.

This type of thermometer can also be used to measure the temperature of water or food, since it does not need to be immersed in a liquid or dish.

Review of popular infrared thermometers

It is often difficult for buyers to make a choice in favor of one device or another, since there are simply a huge number of them in the assortment of modern stores. After studying reviews of the most popular products, decide on suitable model it will be much easier.

Frontal/ear thermometer B Well

This device is great for measuring temperature in the ears and temples. Allows you to get the most accurate results almost instantly. Measurement time – 3-4 seconds.

Perfect for small children, as it will not disturb or scare the baby in the process. Equipped with a special scanning mechanism that reads readings from several areas at once and records the maximum value. The device also remembers the last measurement. To obtain this data, you will need to hold the power button for several moments with the product turned off.

Contactless Sensitec nf 3101

Features of the Sensitek device include:

Ability to measure temperature from 32 to 42 degrees;
permissible distance for measurement is from 5 to 15 centimeters;
measurement speed in half a second;
automatic data saving (remembers up to 32 last measurements) and shutdown after 7 seconds of inactivity.

Moreover, this new product runs on two AA batteries and weighs only 170 grams. Equipped with a high temperature alarm. The device display is backlit, so you can use it even in the dark. It will be possible to measure not only the temperature of the body, but also of other surfaces.

Chicco Comfort Quick infrared ear thermometer for newborns

Designed for instant temperature measurement. Captures the heat generated by the eardrum. The miniature tip allows you to quickly and painlessly carry out the procedure, without disturbing the baby.

It has 25 memory positions, which are important for an accurate diagnosis. The previously measured temperature is also shown on the display.

It is possible to switch degrees between C and F. If the temperature exceeds 37.5 degrees, a beep sounds. The set also includes 20 special disposable caps.

Microlife NC100

The main advantages of the device under discussion are its non-contact nature and accuracy. Thanks to the first, you can measure the temperature even of a sleeping child and there is no need for constant disinfection, and thanks to the second, the maximum error can be no more than 0.2 degrees.

It will be possible to measure body temperature from 34 to 42 degrees. Conveniently, the display backlight changes its hue depending on the readings. So, if the result is below 37.4, it is green, and if it is higher, it is red. Weighs like this convenient device only 81 grams.

Where can I buy it and how much does it cost?

The cost of a thermometer depends primarily on its functions and design. You can purchase such devices at most pharmacies. For example, in Farmshop, IFC or “Eight Lives”. They are also sold in online stores. Such as: zdravzona.ru, mistermed.ru or 10i.ru.

The cost of the Microlife NC100 model starts from 1840 rubles. But for Chicco Comfort Quick for newborns you will need to pay an average of 2,600 rubles (prices are indicated at the time of writing and may differ at the moment).

The infrared thermometer appeared not so long ago, but it has managed to gain great popularity. Using it, you can measure the body temperature of adults and children with maximum accuracy. The process proceeds easily, without the unpleasant sensations that contact-type devices cause. Non-contact ones allow you to measure not only the temperature of the human body, but also water, air and other surfaces. But in order to use this type of device correctly, you need to know how to calibrate an infrared thermometer without errors.

Temperature measurement

What is calibration and why do it?

The thermometer is mandatory element home first aid kit. This item should always be in good condition, because the temperature can rise at any time; measuring it will help provide timely medical assistance.

Recently, many people have begun to use infrared thermometers instead of standard mercury devices. These devices are convenient; they take readings in a non-contact mode. But accurate information can be obtained provided that the device is calibrated.

Using the IR Device

Calibration of an infrared thermometer consists of establishing a relationship between data measuring instrument and the size of the measured (input) quantity. In simple words, calibration is understood as the process of adjusting the measurements of a device to the actual indicators of the surface being measured.

Calibration is required to obtain accurate readings. Typically, modern IR products are calibrated by the manufacturer in the laboratory using special devices, so there are rarely any discrepancies in measurements.

Example of calibration in numbers

In order to understand what this is, we can consider an example. A good example will measure water using a conventional and infrared thermometer:

  • when measuring medical device the water temperature in the bathroom is 36.6 0 C;
  • on the display of the IR device – 36.3 0 C;
  • to get accurate indicators, add 0.3 0 C to the figure;
  • this figure should be added for subsequent temperature measurements.

Features of use

In order to correctly measure temperature with an infrared thermometer, you need to know how to use it. Typically, the steps to determine measurement data depend on the options provided by the device manufacturer.

Location of important parts of the device

How the process of taking temperature with an IR device is performed is described in the instructions. Typically usage is done like this:

  • should be turned on, this is done by pressing a special button;
  • Next you need to select the required operating mode;
  • If you want to measure the temperature in your ear, you first need to remove the cap. The sensor is inserted into the ear canal. Next, press the measurement button once and wait a while until the sound alarm appears. After extraction, information will be displayed on the screen;
  • To remove using a non-contact method, the device should be brought to the body at a distance of 4 to 6 cm from its surface. Next, the button is pressed and a sound signal is expected. After it appears, the data is displayed on the display;
  • after that you can turn it off.

When using infrared devices, you should follow important rules, which will help you accurately set temperature readings.

Use for ears and forehead

The rules include:

  • you should be careful when using. Under no circumstances should the product be thrown, dropped, or hit against other objects;
  • It is constantly necessary to monitor the battery charge level;
  • It is necessary to wipe the LCD display and sensor from time to time. To do this, you can use a napkin that is pre-moistened with alcohol. When wiping, do not touch the display with your hands;
  • before taking measurements, the patient’s skin must be thoroughly wiped so that it is dry;
  • It is advisable to measure the temperature 2-3 times. After this, you can use the average;
  • To prevent the product from overheating, after 4 uses you should let it rest for 10 minutes. Otherwise, it may quickly fail, which will lead to the recording of incorrect data.

Top 5 models

The description and method of using an IR thermometer cannot help you choose a suitable device. Must be considered popular models device data, their important features and characteristics.

Use in a sleeping child

GARIN

This model is designed to take body temperature. It works using a non-contact method. To take readings, the device should be brought to the surface of the body at a distance of 5-8 cm.

The main characteristics of GARIN include:

  • work can be carried out in the range from 0 to 118 degrees;
  • data is provided within 2 seconds;
  • can switch itself off after half a minute;
  • for the surface of the body, the permissible error is no more than 0.2 degrees, and for the surface of liquid, air - 0.1 degrees;
  • two types of scale can be used - Celsius and Fahrenheit;
  • memory is capable of storing old indicators;
  • at high measurements on the device it triggers sound alarm and backlight.

You can buy a GARIN thermometer in stores medical equipment or order in the online store. The cost is low, only 1800 rubles.

ENDEVER TEMP-05

A convenient infrared device that takes readings in non-contact mode. It can be used on the body and also to check the air temperature, baby food, water.

It has the following qualities:

  • good memory capacity that can hold up to 32 measurements;
  • the maximum error can be no more than 0.2 degrees;
  • when the readings are elevated, a sound or light signal is triggered;
  • Data is received in approximately 1 second;
  • The product turns off after 5 seconds.

The thermometer has a low price. It can be purchased in pharmacies or specialized medical stores for 1,600 rubles.

Digital infrared thermometer DT-635

The infrared digital device DT-635 is a universal thermometer. The device can be used to measure body temperature (on the forehead, in the ear), and is also suitable for other surfaces - liquid, air.

TO good qualities infrared device model DT-635 can be classified as:

  • capable of taking readings in a wide range – from 0 to 50 degrees;
  • indicators are displayed within 1 second;
  • the maximum error can be about 0.1 degrees;
  • the device has a memory that allows you to view the result of the latest measurements;
  • there is a sound alarm that warns of high temperature;
  • the device has a built-in clock and room thermometer;
  • automatic shutdown is provided;
  • the body is made of durable material, which can withstand impacts when dropped.

A high-quality universal thermometer with a non-contact method of taking temperature has no disadvantages. It has a convenient application in which you can get the most accurate indicators. At the same time, it does not have a high cost - only 1200-1400 rubles.

DADGET MT4004

This is a small infrared thermometer that belongs to portable devices. He has maximum convenience during use. Using this model, you can measure not only body temperature, but also for non-contact determination of the heating state of solid objects and liquids.

The device has a number of positive characteristics:

  • the device has light weight, only 40 grams. For this reason, you can easily take it with you to work or on trips;
  • high speed of data acquisition during measurement – ​​1 second;
  • the error is quite small, it is within 0.2 degrees;
  • there is a function automatic shutdown in a quarter of a minute.

However, the device has several disadvantages, for many they will seem quite significant. The device has minimum set functions. There is also a high measurement error.

You can purchase a portable product at a pharmacy or medical supply store. On average, the cost of the device is no more than 1000 rubles.

BabyOno

This is a non-contact thermometer that is designed for children, but it can also be used by adults. It allows you to take temperature readings with maximum accuracy, without causing any discomfort.

TO positive qualities BabyOno models include the following:

  • the device is capable of taking accurate readings at a distance of up to 15 cm on the surface of the forehead or body;
  • the high-frequency device has a small measurement error, which is only 0.1 degrees Celsius;
  • the duration of measurement determination is 3 seconds;
  • there is a memory that allows you to save up to 32 recent measurements;
  • The functionality of the device includes a sound signal that is triggered when the readings are high.

A convenient thermometer for non-contact temperature reading has one significant drawback- high price. On average, it is sold in pharmacies or stores for 5,000 rubles.

Infrared non-contact thermometers are new devices that allow you to quickly and easily take temperature readings. They are convenient to use for small children because they do not cause fear or discomfort in the baby and do not cause inconvenience. But before purchasing, you should carefully consider the features of these devices, their functions and main characteristics.

Unfortunately, everyone has had to deal with such a nuisance as fever. Since childhood, we have become accustomed to having a thermometer under our armpits. But try measuring the temperature of a small child in this way, who is squirming, waving his arms and in no way wants to sit in his mother’s arms. A miracle of technology comes to the aid of parents - an electronic thermometer, or even a completely magical remedy - infrared. And this is where the problem arises. A lot of money has been paid, a miracle of technology is available, the temperature is obvious :-(, but the readings of the thermometer do not fit in any way. Is it defective? Most likely not, it’s just electronic thermometers There are specifics and simple rules for measuring temperature. So, how to measure temperature correctly: rectally, under the armpit, in the mouth, on the forehead, taking into account the specifics of modern thermometers.

How to measure temperature correctly

How to measure temperature correctly with a mercury thermometer.

A mercury thermometer is fraught with danger due to the mercury contained in it. Therefore, more and more people are abandoning such thermometers in favor of electronic ones. However, for now, mercury thermometers remain the most popular in Russia. A mercury thermometer can be used to measure the temperature of the armpit and mouth. Mercury thermometer not recommended for rectal temperature measurement(in the rectum) due to its fragility. The most common way to measure temperature is under the armpit. This method is considered the least accurate. In addition, as a rule, in the left axillary fossa the temperature can be 0.1 - 0.3 0 C higher than in the right :) How to measure armpit temperature correctly.
  1. Wipe the armpit thoroughly with a napkin so that when measuring the temperature, the thermometer does not cool down due to the evaporation of sweat.
  2. Place the thermometer so that the entire mercury reservoir is in contact with the body on all sides at the deepest point of the armpit and does not move while the temperature is being measured.
  3. Press your shoulder and elbow against your body so that the armpit is covered and the thermometer does not move.
  4. The time for measuring body temperature in the armpit is 7-10 minutes.
How to correctly measure the temperature in your mouth. This method of measuring temperature contraindicated children under 5 years of age, people with increased excitability and mentally ill people. It is impossible to measure temperature correctly if the patient has oral diseases and/or nasal breathing disorder. In addition, the temperature in the oral cavity is affected by recent food and drink intake, and smoking. The temperature will change with rapid breathing, every 10 additional respiratory movements per minute reduce the temperature in the oral cavity by approximately 0.5 0 C.
  1. If you have removable dentures, they must be removed.
  2. Place the tip of the thermometer under the tongue to the right or left of the frenulum.
  3. The mouth must be kept tightly closed to prevent cold air from entering.
  4. The time for measuring body temperature in the oral cavity is 3-5 minutes.

How to correctly measure temperature with an electronic thermometer.


An electronic thermometer is less dangerous than a mercury thermometer and is more convenient to use because it requires less time to obtain readings. It can be used to measure temperature under the armpit, in the mouth and rectally. Temperature in the armpit and mouth measured according to the same rules as mercury thermometer, excluding the measurement time.
  1. The measurement time depends on the thermometer model. The instructions usually indicate that body temperature must be measured before the signal. On average it is from 30 seconds to 1 minute. BUT!
  2. There is one caveat! The signal of many electronic thermometers is designed to measure rectal temperature. To obtain an adequate result from such a thermometer, you must hold it under your armpit for 5 minutes and ignore the signal.
  3. Temperature in the mouth at correct positioning The thermometer is measured before the signal.
How to measure temperature rectally. The rectum has a stable temperature as close as possible to the temperature internal organs, therefore this method of measuring temperature is one of the most accurate. You cannot measure body temperature rectally in case of stool retention or diarrhea, or in the presence of diseases of the rectum (proctitis, hemorrhoids, etc.)
  1. Before insertion into the rectum, the tip of the thermometer should be lubricated with Vaseline or oil.
  2. The adult patient is in a lateral position, small child lay on the stomach.
  3. Turn on the thermometer, wait until the starting indicator is established (for more details, see the instructions for the specific model).
  4. The thermometer is smoothly inserted into the rectum to a depth of 2-3 cm.
  5. After insertion, the thermometer is held between the straightened middle and index fingers hands. The buttocks should fit tightly against one another to eliminate the influence of cold air.
  6. You cannot insert the thermometer abruptly, firmly fix it in the rectum, or move while measuring body temperature.
  7. The time for measuring body temperature in the rectum is 1-2 minutes, or until the sound signal.
After measuring the temperature in the rectum, the thermometer must be placed in a disinfectant solution, and after disinfection, stored separately from other thermometers.

How to measure temperature correctly infrared thermometer.


Measuring temperature with an infrared thermometer differs significantly from the usual methods described above. An infrared thermometer is designed to measure body temperature on the forehead; in addition, most models are adapted to measure temperature in the ear. Infrared thermometers have the shortest measurement time, so they are very convenient for measuring body temperature in young children. Measuring body temperature on the forehead. Often, in order to determine whether the temperature has risen, we place our hand on our forehead. With an infrared thermometer, you can get a digital reading of what you feel in your palm.
  1. Wipe off perspiration from your forehead if your forehead is damp, so that when measuring the temperature, sweat evaporation does not cool your forehead.
  2. Turn on the thermometer and wait until the starting indicator is established (for more details, see the instructions for the specific model).
  3. Place the thermometer on your left temple so that the surface of the thermometer is in full contact with your forehead.
  4. Press the button and, holding it pressed (unless otherwise indicated in the instructions for a particular model), swipe from the left temple to the right. Make sure that the measuring surface does not come off your forehead.
  5. Release the button and wait for the end of measurement signal.
  6. After the signal, the thermometer can be removed from the temple and the measurement results can be viewed.
  7. The entire measurement cycle, including preparing the thermometer, will take you a few seconds.
Measuring body temperature in the ear.
This measurement method can be considered the most accurate. In the ear, the temperature of the eardrum, protected from external temperature factors by the bend of the ear canal, is measured. It is because of this bend that most often they get a result that does not correspond to reality, because they take readings not from the eardrum, but from the curved ear canal. Also, the cause of inaccurate measurements may be sulfur plug. Although crying, anxiety, rapid breathing and the presence of sulfur masses do not affect the measurement result. At correct measurement The normal temperature is:
  • armpit 36.3 - 36.9 0 C;
  • on the forehead 36.3 - 36.9 0 C;
  • in the mouth 36.8 - 37.3 0 C;
  • rectal 37.3 - 37.7 0 C;
  • in the ear 37.3 - 37.7 0 C.
The temperature in the mouth is usually 0.5 degrees lower than the rectal temperature (measured in the rectum) and 0.5 degrees higher than the temperature under the armpit. The temperature in the ear is equal to or slightly higher than the rectal temperature. Now you are savvy and can measure the temperature correctly! If the article was useful, click on one of the social buttons. It’s not difficult for you, but it’s nice for me :)