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Digital thermometers work by using heat sensors that determine body temperature. They can be used to take temperature readings in the mouth, rectum, or armpit. When assessing digital thermometer readings, keep in mind that armpit (axillary) temperature runs about ½ to 1°F (0.6°C) cooler than oral readings.
How do you use a digital thermometer?
To use a digital thermometer: Clean the tip with cold water and soap, then rinse it. Turn the thermometer on. Put the tip under your tongue, towards the back of your mouth. Close your lips around the thermometer. Wait until it beeps or flashes. Check the temperature on the display.
How does a digital thermometer works without mercury?
Digital thermometers contain a device called a thermoresistor. The thermoresistor has an electrical current running through it, and the resistance, or how freely the current can flow, changes with temperature. A small computer or other circuit measures the resistance, and converts it to a temperature.
Are digital thermometers more accurate?
The digital thermometer is not only faster on body temperature measurement results providing, but also better accuracy results to us. Based on the tested records of the experiments, the accuracy of a digital thermometer could be 0.1℃. The accuracy is better than the normal mercury thermometer.
What is a normal temperature on a digital thermometer?
Normal body temperature is about 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (°F) or 37 degrees Celsius (°C). Normal temperature often varies from 1° to 2°F (½° to 1°C). A normal temperature is usually lower in the morning and increases during the day. It reaches its high in the late afternoon or evening.
What does Lo mean on a digital thermometer?
‘LO’ means low temperature, and not low battery – so no worries! The reason why the thermometer shows ‘LO’ from time to time is that it is reading the room temperature – which is roughly 69.8°F/21°C. This is too low for our basal thermometer which can only measure down to 89.6°F/32°C.
Are digital thermometer mercury free?
The oldest thermometers used are mercury in glass. Newer thermometers include non-mercury liquids in glass and digital and electronic devices that use sensors to measure temperature. Thermometers that check body temperature in the ear, across the forehead, or have a digital display do not contain mercury.
Why does my digital thermometer give me different readings?
Differences between measurements can also result from the following factors: Put the device on the table in the room where the measurement is taking place and let it cool down first. Your room temperature is too low or too high. Use your thermometer at temperatures between 10.0 °C/ 50.0 °F and 40.0 °C/ 104.0 °F.
What are the disadvantages of digital thermometer?
The advantages of digital thermometers are that they are inexpensive, easy to read, require very little maintenance and give an accurate reading. The disadvantage is that they get damaged easily if dropped and the battery powering them eventually runs out.
What is the difference between digital thermometer and normal thermometer?
While the idea of a mercury thermometer is based on the theory of the expansion of mercury when it is heated, a digital thermometer solely utilizes a circuit; which means it relies on the effectiveness of the microchip. In fact, the principle of digital thermometers is mostly based on metal’s resistance to heat.
How long does a digital thermometer last?
Thermometers do not expire, but they do have to eventually be replaced. Digital thermometers will last about 3 to 5 years, while mercury thermometers will last indefinitely as long as they aren’t cracked or damaged.
What is a fever on an oral thermometer?
Advertising & Sponsorship. The following thermometer readings generally indicate a fever: Rectal, ear or temporal artery temperature of 100.4 (38 C) or higher. Oral temperature of 100 F (37.8 C) or higher. Armpit temperature of 99 F (37.2 C) or higher.
Is 37.1 considered a fever?
A low-grade fever for adults and children is when your body temperature is elevated slightly above normal. This is generally between 98.8°F (37.1°C) and 100.3°F (38°C). People with high-grade fevers should seek medical advice. For adults, this is an oral temperature of 103°F (39.4°C).
Is 36.9 a normal temperature?
Your body’s normal temperature is between 36 and 36.8 degrees Celsius. A high temperature or fever, for most people, is when your body temperature is 38 degrees Celsius or higher. This can be a sign that you are unwell. It usually means you have an infection such as a cold.
Is taking your temp under your arm accurate?
Rectal temps are the most accurate. Forehead temps are the next most accurate. Oral and ear temps are also accurate if done properly. Temps done in the armpit are the least accurate.
How do I reset my digital thermometer?
How to reset a digital thermometer? Some digital thermometers do not require any adjustment of a screw or nut. You simply need to locate the reset button. When the freezing point or boiling point of water is achieved, push or hold the button and that’s it.
How do you know if a thermometer is not working?
Pour cold water into the glass right up to the brim, then stir it for 15 seconds. Insert your thermometer into the water without touching the sides of the glass. After 30 seconds, your thermometer should read 32° F. If it doesn’t, it may need to be replaced or recalibrated.
Why is my digital thermometer reading low?
It is standard practice for the majority of digital thermometers to display a “LO” sign when turning the device on. This means “LOW TEMPERATURE”. This is because these types of thermometers are made to measure Body Temperature, so when outside the body, the temperature is usually LOWER.
