A thermometer is used to measure the temperature of human beings, animals as well as objects. It is a medical device that measures the degree of hotness of any object, and primarily used for measuring the temperature of body. Using a thermometer, you can measure the temperature in different units such as Kelvin (K), Celsius (°C) or Fahrenheit (°F).
Thermometers can be used for practically anything including air, food, etc. Among different types, clinical thermometers are perhaps the most extensively used and popular as well. They are designed to measure the temperature of the human body and one of the most used devices at clinics or at home. They have a mercury scale for measuring the temperature but digital thermometers are also easily available now.
It’s easy to use a clinical thermometer and anyone can understand it readings and measure the exact heat levels of the body. It has two temperature scales – Celsius scale & Fahrenheit scale and body temperature is generally measured in the former. By using this kind of thermometer, you can measure temperatures ranging from a minimum of 35 °C (94 °F) upto a maximum of 42 °C (108 °F).
Usages of clinical thermometer
Most of us know that thermometers are meant to measure the body temperature. We are however not aware of its alternative. The device can also be used for measuring the body temperature of animals as well as gaging female fertility.
Let’s look at its usages –
- Human Body Temperature
This thermometer measures the body temperature from 95 to 109 degrees Fahrenheit (or 35 to 40 degrees Celsius) to indicate the overall health condition. After all, high or low readings in the device may indicate the presence of fever.
- Animal Body Temperature
Like humans, this device is also helpful in measuring body temperatures in animals. This is how we can know whether animals are suffering from fever due to illness or infections.
Predicting Female Fertility
Apart from measuring body temperatures, thermometers are also used to predict fertile periods. It measures BBT or basal body temperature to inform whether ovulation has happened.
Care to take while using a clinical thermometer
Thermometers are a sensitive device which require some care while being used and stored. You can also check thermometer price, compare the various types available and understand the right ways to use it.
Here are some points to consider while using the thermometer –
- Never use a thermometer before washing it properly
- Wash the device using an antiseptic
- Wash it before and after use
- Before using, shake or jerk it to bring the mercury level down to normal
- Before use, make sure the level is below 35 °C or 94 °F.
- It’s breakable and sensitive, so keep it away from hitting any hard object
- Keep it away from any open flame and never store it in direct sunlight
- And lastly, never ever hold it by the bulb