How to use an electronic thermometer correctly so that it doesn't “lie”
Many of us switched from mercury thermometers to electronic ones for one simple reason: a mercury thermometer is dangerous. It can break, and the mercury in it is poisonous. However, electronic thermometers also turned out to be imperfect. They can incorrectly show body temperature. Why does this happen? And what to do in such cases?
Maybe it's not the thermometers, but their improper use? Maybe we're doing something wrong? How to correctly measure temperature with electronic thermometers?
What could be the error?
It is believed that the error of an electronic thermometer is approximately 2 tenths of a degree. Therefore, when measuring with this device, it is usually advised to add 0.2. That is, if you have the classic 36.6 degrees, then in reality you have 36.8 degrees. According to other data, you need to add 0.3 – 0.4 degrees, informs Ukr.Media.
However, these values can be large, the error of an electronic thermometer can reach 0.5-1 degree if the temperature is measured incorrectly and quickly. So how, after all, to measure it using this device?
There must be contact.
So, let's start with the fact that mercury and electronic thermometers differ in the very mechanism of their work. Mercury measures temperature due to the expansion of liquid metal. Electronic – due to the sensor, which is located at the tip of the device. Therefore, you need to carefully monitor how tightly the tip of the electronic thermometer is pressed against the body in order to achieve accurate measurement. Hold the thermometer vertically, at an angle downwards and press it.
Do not remove the thermometer immediately.
The instructions for electronic thermometers often state that the body temperature measurement time is 10 seconds. That's why people, when they hear the thermometer beep, take it out. You don't need to do this. Ignore the beep, hold the thermometer for a few more minutes after the beep, so that the result is approximately the same time that you spend measuring the body with a mercury thermometer.
Keep in mind: human body temperature can fluctuate significantly in short periods of time, sometimes by large amounts — up to 1 degree. An electronic thermometer does indeed capture the temperature in a matter of seconds, but you need to hold it for several minutes for the device to average the obtained value.
Why does an electronic thermometer “lie”?
The most common cause of malfunctions in electronic thermometers is a drop in voltage in the batteries. That is, if you have not changed the batteries for one and a half to two years, it is quite possible that the device will soon start to “lie”. Also, an electronic thermometer can distort data in case of strong heat in the room. In this case, it will simply… show the air temperature.
How to check the thermometer for proper operation
If you suspect that your thermometer is “lying,” it is better to contact a service center. On average, electronic thermometers have an inter-calibration interval of one to two years. Get the thermometer’s technical passport, which should indicate the date of manufacture and the warranty period of the device.
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