Reading Ear Thermometers

Operation

• Operating an ear thermometer is easy. Turn on the thermometer. Some models require you to hold the button briefly. The thermometer will then run a brief test. This will test how well the thermometer is running and will let you know if there are any problems. Most models will beep and display an error message if there is a problem. If not, many models will display the last temperature read. Push the ̶0;clear̶1; button to get rid of the temperature. Once you̵7;re ready, the first thing you do is put a plastic safety cone on the tip of the thermometer. This will help keep the thermometer sterile and safe. Carefully slide the thermometer into the ear of the baby. Push the ̶0;read̶1; button. The LCD screen will flash briefly, and the thermometer may emit a few brief beeps. After a few seconds, the temperature will be displayed. Remove the plastic cone from the thermometer and throw it away.

Problems with Thermometers

• Sometimes the thermometer will not read correctly. It will either display an error message or it will display a temperature that is obviously wrong. One common problem with ear thermometers is lack of depth. Some people don̵7;t want to push the thermometer in for fear they̵7;ll damage the ear. Put the tip of the thermometer as far in as it will comfortably go. Don̵7;t push or force the thermometer. Always use the same ear. Temperatures can vary between different sides of the head. Also make sure the ear canal is free of excess ear wax. Use a Q-Tip to gently remove any ear wax from the ear you are using. There is always the potential that your thermometer will simply malfunction and cease to give accurate readings. Try to have an extra thermometer to ensure that you get a proper temperature reading.