How to use an infrared thermometer

Jan 17, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Shuwen

Introduction

Fix the subject's head and have them turn their face to one side. When taking the temperature, the operator should gently pull the subject's earlobe to straighten the ear canal. Insert the probe into the ear canal, ensuring a snug fit, then press the measurement button. After a beep sound, the measurement is complete; remove the probe from the ear canal. Read the exact body temperature value from the display.

Generally, infrared thermometers measure body temperature using infrared feedback. Currently, the most commonly used type is the ear thermometer. The specific procedure is as follows:

1. Before using the ear thermometer, ensure a new, clean probe cover is attached, then turn on the power and wait for the "ready" symbol to appear.

2. Stabilize the subject's head and have them turn their face to one side.

3. During temperature measurement, gently pull the subject's earlobe to straighten the ear canal. If there is any debris in the ear canal, clean it with a tissue.

4. Insert the probe into the ear canal, ensuring a snug fit. Press the measurement button; after a beep sound, the measurement is complete. Remove the probe from the ear canal.

5. Read the exact temperature value displayed on the screen. The normal range for surface body temperature is 36.1–37.2°C.

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Instructions for Using Infrared Thermometer

The method of using an infrared thermometer is to hold the device's power button with your right hand and press it with your finger until a prompt sound is heard, after which the temperature of the object will be displayed on the screen. The infrared thermometer works by focusing infrared thermal radiation onto a detector, which converts the radiation power into an electrical signal. This electrical signal is then compensated for ambient temperature and displayed in units of temperature.

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Illustrated Instructions for Using a Thermometer

Commonly used thermometers for measuring body temperature include mercury thermometers, digital thermometers, and infrared thermometers. To use a mercury thermometer, shake it down to below 35°C, then place the bulb in the axilla (armpit) and hold it in place for 5 minutes. A digital thermometer typically requires only 3–5 seconds for measurement. Infrared thermometers—most commonly forehead (temporal) thermometers—are used by aiming the device at the forehead and pressing the activation button; the reading appears within approximately 5 seconds.

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How long should a newborn's temperature be measured?

The time required to take a newborn's temperature depends on the measuring instrument used. If using a mercury thermometer, measurement usually takes 5 to 10 minutes to accurately reflect the true body temperature. With an electronic thermometer, the process may take only about 10 seconds. An infrared thermometer can measure temperature in just 1 second, although its accuracy is relatively lower; therefore, it is recommended to determine the temperature based on an average of three readings.