In the world of Covid-19, the value of having an accurate thermometer has increased ten-fold. With the protocols that have appeared to combat the pandemic, you must be able to verify whether your child has a fever or not.
There are many types of thermometers though, with different levels of accuracy. Which one should you choose?
Read this article to learn about the best thermometer types.
1. Forehead Strips
When it comes to types of thermometers and their uses, forehead strip thermometers are an attractive prospect. They allow you to just take your baby’s temperature without waking them up.
Are they accurate though? While there isn’t much research about them, strip thermometers have low accuracy and aren’t reliable enough.
2. Ear Thermometer
Ear thermometers are one of the most common ways of checking the temperature. They’re also very reliable.
Additionally, they’re fairly easy to use, although you shouldn’t use them on children under 6 months. Just make sure there’s no excessive earwax as it can skew the results.
3. Forehead Thermometer
This type of thermometer is very popular for taking the temperature of children older than 3 months, especially if you’d rather not take the temperature rectally.
To get an accurate reading, make sure to follow the directions when it comes to placement.
4. Forehead and Ear Thermometer
There are thermometers combining the advantages of both ear and forehead thermometers. These digital thermometers are both convenient and accurate.
Click on this for an excellent thermometer for babies, kids, and adults.
5. Wearable Thermometer
Like the forehead strip, the wearable thermometer is a novelty thermometer that is supposed to be highly practical.
It is supposed to notify you on your smartphone should your kid’s temperature reach a fever. However, this type of thermometer isn’t reliable enough.
6. Digital Thermometer
Digital thermometers are practical for a few reasons: they can be used at any age, give accurate readings, and are affordable.
If your children are under 3, rectal temperature is the most accurate. From age 4 or 5, you can start taking the temperature orally.
7. Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer
With the Covid pandemic, this type of thermometer has had a surge in popularity because it doesn’t require contact.
Infrared thermometers are accurate and can be used for screening.
8. Pacifier Thermometer
These thermometers are convenient if you have a baby that uses a pacifier. According to instructions, a pacifier thermometer should remain in the mouth without moving for up to 6 minutes.
However, these thermometers aren’t accurate and will only give you an approximate reading.
9. Mercury Thermometer
Mercury thermometers used to be the only option for taking temperature. Due to safety concerns, they’re no longer used and are even illegal in some places.
If you have one though, don’t throw it away. You can inquire about a hazardous waste collection site in your area.
The Best Thermometer Types
These different thermometer types give you a variety of ways of taking temperature. However, there are some types such as forehead strips and pacifier thermometers that you shouldn’t rely on.
Ear and forehead thermometers are safe bets as they are practical and accurate. Non-contact infrared thermometers provide an option if you want to respect social distancing.
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