1 Determine the age of the person being measured
The first step when using an ear thermometer is to determine the age of the person being measured. It is important to use the appropriate thermometer for accurate results.
For infants, a rectal thermometer is recommended.
For newborns up to about 6 months old, a digital rectal thermometer is the most accurate option. Using an ear thermometer for infants can easily cause ear infections or provide inaccurate results due to earwax or the shape of the ear. Alternatively, a forehead thermometer can also be used for infants.
For toddlers, an ear thermometer can be used.
Once a child reaches 3 years old and starts to walk, an ear thermometer can be used with caution. However, it is still recommended to consider other options such as a rectal, armpit, or forehead thermometer for more accurate results and to avoid the risk of ear infections.
For children 3 years and older, any thermometer can be used.
For children 3 years of age and older, any type of thermometer can be used when they have a fever. It is important to clean the earwax before using an ear thermometer for accurate results. If there are any doubts about the accuracy of the ear thermometer, it is recommended to use another thermometer and compare the results.
2 Instructions on how to measure
After determining the age of the person, especially for children, follow these steps to use an ear thermometer:
Step 1: Clean the ears.
Before measuring, it is important to clean the ears to avoid measurement errors. Use a few drops of oil such as warm olive, almond, or mineral oil to soften the wax. Then, carefully remove the wax using an earwax removal tool, avoiding the use of cotton swabs. Ensure that the ear is dry before measuring.
Step 2: Sterilize the thermometer probe.
Before use, clean the thermometer probe with a cloth dampened with a small amount of alcohol or use disinfecting paper to prevent infection.
Step 3: Insert the thermometer tip.
For adults, it is easy to insert the thermometer tip into the ear canal. However, for children, use one hand to gently pull the earlobe outwards, and then insert the thermometer tip. Make sure to maintain a safe distance from the eardrum to ensure accurate measurement.
Step 4: Read the measurement results.
Turn on the thermometer and hold it in place until the signal (beep) indicates that the measurement is complete. Remove the thermometer from the ear and read the reading to determine the body temperature.
3 How to interpret the measurement results
Reading the results on an ear thermometer is simple. Follow these steps to interpret the body temperature:
Step 1: Understand the temperature range for different body parts and individual characteristics.
To determine whether a person has a fever or not, it is important to understand the typical temperature range for different body parts and individual characteristics. For example, the normal average temperature under the tongue for adults is 98.6 degrees F (37 degrees C), while the ear temperature is often higher than 100 degrees F (37.8 degrees C). However, normal body temperature can vary depending on various factors such as gender, activity level, time of day, and menstrual phase for women. Therefore, consider these factors when interpreting the measurement results.
Step 2: Consider other factors associated with fever.
Sometimes, thermometers may provide inaccurate results. If there is any doubt about the measurement, it is recommended to test multiple times or use different thermometers to compare the results. Additionally, consider other symptoms and signs of illness such as sweating, headache, muscle pain, weakness, loss of appetite, increased thirst, etc.
Step 3: Determine whether medical attention is necessary.
Fever is a common sign of illness, but it is not always a cause for concern. If the temperature is moderately high and the person shows no other serious symptoms, it is usually safe to monitor the situation and use appropriate fever-reducing medication if necessary. However, if the temperature is very high or accompanied by unusual discomfort, malaise, fatigue, cough, severe diarrhea, etc., it is advisable to consult a doctor for timely treatment.
In conclusion, the instructions provided above outline the proper and accurate use of an ear thermometer.
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