Choosing A Thermometer by Debi Evans

Question: I have no thermometer, could you advise?
Answer: My advice is NOT to waste your money!! There are very obvious signs to detect a temperature, and however high it is the treatment is the same. Only when someone becomes disorientated, unconscious, severely dehydrated or in severe pain does EXTRA help need to be summoned.

Some temps do take longer than to come down but with lots of tepid sponging and fluids most recover quickly. BUT for those of you wanting the security of having one, I recommend a 'Tympanic one' this is where you put a little funnel attached to a machine inside the ear and click a button. It is very accurate and fast. Great for kids! Remember though to CLEAN it! Viruses do stick to objects. If you sneeze, wipe down! Here is a run down on thermometers:

What Are The Different Types Of Thermometers?

Digital thermometers usually provide the quickest, most accurate readings. They come in many sizes and shapes, are available at most supermarkets and pharmacies, and are available in a range of prices. Although you should read the manufacturer's instructions to determine what method or methods the thermometer is designed for, many digital thermometers can be used for the following temperature-taking methods:

• oral (in the mouth)
• rectal (in the bottom)
• axillary (under the arm)

Digital Thermometers

Digital thermometers usually have a plastic, flexible probe with a temperature sensor at the tip and an easy-to-read digital display on the opposite end.

Electronic Ear Thermometers

Electronic ear thermometers measure the tympanic temperature – the temperature inside the ear canal. Although they're quick and easy to use in older babies and children, electronic ear thermometers aren't as accurate for infants 3 months or younger as digital thermometers and are more expensive.

Plastic Strip Thermometers

Plastic strip thermometers (small plastic strips that you press against your child's forehead) may be able to tell you whether your child has a fever, but they aren't reliable for taking an exact measurement, especially in infants and very young children. If you need to know your child's exact temperature, plastic strip thermometers are not the way to go. Forehead thermometers also may be able to tell you if your child has a fever, but are not as accurate as oral or rectal digital thermometers.

Pacifier Thermometers

Pacifier thermometers may seem convenient, but again, their readings are less reliable than rectal temperatures and shouldn't be used in infants younger than 3 months. They also require the child to keep the pacifier in the mouth for several minutes without moving, which is a nearly impossible task for most babies and toddlers.

Glass Mercury Thermometers

Glass mercury thermometers were once common, but the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) now says they should not be used because of concerns  about possible exposure to mercury, which is an environmental toxin. (If you  still have a mercury thermometer, do not simply throw it in the trash where the mercury can leak out. Talk to your doctor or your local health department about how and where to dispose of a mercury thermometer.)

Copyright 2009 Debi Evans. Visit debi's web site for information on autism/challenging kids and Aspergers Syndrome.