Temperature taking hints
It is important to know each individual's normal temperature when they are well. This is the only way to
accurately diagnose a fever. Take multiple readings when healthy to determine normal temperature.
A child's normal temperature can be as high as 37.7 °C or as low as 36.1 °C. Be sure to note this unit reads
0.5 °C lower than a rectal digital measurement.
Patient must be inside for 30 minutes before taking a measurement.
Note: Patient and the thermometer should be in the same ambient temperature for at least 10 minutes
before taking a measurement..
Always hold the thermometer and the forehead steady when taking a reading. Do not move the
thermometer until you hear the final beep. Don't take a measurement while or immediately after nursing
a baby.
Patients should not drink, eat, or be physically active before/while taking the measurement. Remove hats
and wait 10 minutes before taking a measurement.
Before taking a measurement, remove dirt or hair from the forehead area. Wait 10 minutes after cleaning
before taking measurement.
Always take the temperature exactly as directed. Temperature results may vary if positioned in the wrong
location.
For patients measuring their own temperature, it is recommended to use the "touch" option instead of
"no touch. "
In the following situations it is recommended that three temperatures in the same location be taken and
the highest one taken as the reading:
•
Newborn infants in the first 100 days.
•
Children under three years of age with a compromised immune system and for whom the presence or
absence of fever is critical.
•
When the user is learning how to use the thermometer for the first time until he/she has familiarized
himself/herself with the instrument and obtains consistent readings.
General precautions:
•
Remove any sweat prior to measuring with a dry cloth.
•
Avoid any cooling or warming cloths on the forehead for at least 30 minutes prior to measurement.
•
Do not take temperature measurements over scar tissue, open sores or abrasions.
•
Keep the measurement sensor and lens clean. Avoid directly touching the sensor or lens.
•
Always store the thermometer with the protective cap in place to prevent dirt and scratches from
damaging the device.
•
Make sure to remove the protective cap before taking a measurement and to put the cap back on
after using the thermometer.
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