6. Temperature-taking tips
1) It is important to know the normal temperature of each
individual when they are well. This is the only way to accurately
diagnose a fever. Record readings twice a day, once in the early
morning and once in the late afternoon. Take the average of these
two temperatures to obtain the normal oral equivalent tempera-
ture. As temperature readings may vary among different locations
on the forehead, always take the temperature in the same location.
2) The normal temperature of a child can be as high as 37.7℃/99.9
℉ or as low as 36.1℃/97.0℉. Please note that this thermometer
reads 0.5℃/0.9℉ lower than a rectal digital thermometer.
3) External factors may influence ear temperature, including when
an individual has:
a) been lying on one ear or the other;
b) earwax;
c) been exposed to a very hot or very cold environment;
d) just been swimming or bathing.
In these cases, return to normal condition by waiting quietly for 30
minutes before taking the reading.
If prescription ear drops or other ear medications have been placed
in the ear canal, use the untreated ear.
4) The person to be measured and the thermometer should stay in
a steady-state room condition for at least 30 minutes before taking
the reading.
5) Before placing the thermometer probe on the forehead, remove
hair, dirt or sweat from the measurement area. Wait 10 minutes
after cleaning before taking the reading.
6) Before taking the temperature of another person, clean the
sensor carefully with an alcohol swab and wait for 5 minutes.
Wiping the forehead with a warm or cool cloth may affect the
reading; in this case, it is advisable to wait 10 minutes before taking
the reading.
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