To use a digital thermometer correctly, follow these general steps based on the measurement method:
Oral Temperature Measurement
- Turn on the digital thermometer.
- Place the thermometer tip under your tongue.
- Close your mouth around the thermometer and breathe through your nose.
- Keep the thermometer in place until it beeps, indicating the reading is complete (usually under 1 minute).
- Remove the thermometer and read the temperature on the display.
- Clean the thermometer after use with soapy water or alcohol wipes
Rectal Temperature Measurement (most accurate for infants and young
children)
- Turn on the thermometer.
- Apply a small amount of lubricant to the tip.
- Gently insert the tip about 1.5 cm (half an inch) into the rectum.
- Hold the thermometer steady until it beeps.
- Remove and read the temperature.
- Thoroughly clean the thermometer before and after use
Axillary (Underarm) Temperature Measurement (less accurate)
- Turn on the thermometer.
- Place the tip in the armpit against the skin.
- Lower the arm over the thermometer to hold it in place.
- Wait for the beep, then keep it in place for an additional minute to ensure accuracy.
- Remove and read the temperature.
- Clean the thermometer after use
Additional Tips
- Avoid taking oral temperatures immediately after eating or drinking hot or cold beverages.
- Use separate thermometers for oral and rectal measurements to avoid contamination.
- Clean the thermometer before and after each use with cold soapy water or alcohol.
- For digital thermometers with unit settings, you can switch between Celsius and Fahrenheit by holding the on/off button for several seconds (varies by model)
Following these steps will help you get an accurate temperature reading using a digital thermometer.
