What are the methods for using mercury thermometers?
Jan 21, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the use of mercury thermometers can be divided into several steps: preparation and disinfection, shaking down to the lowest point, selecting the measurement site, properly placing the thermometer, and reading the temperature. Extra caution should be exercised when using mercury thermometers to avoid breakage, which may lead to mercury leakage. If a thermometer is accidentally broken, immediately open windows for ventilation, wear gloves, and use tools such as cardboard or cotton swabs to carefully collect the mercury.
Generally, the usage of a mercury thermometer can be divided into the following steps: preparation and disinfection, shaking down the mercury column, selecting the measurement site, proper placement of the thermometer, and reading the temperature. A detailed breakdown is as follows:
1. Preparation and Disinfection
Before use, ensure the mercury thermometer is clean and undamaged. Disinfect the thermometer with 75% medical-grade alcohol to prevent cross-infection.
2. Shake Down the Mercury Column
Hold the end of the thermometer and shake it vigorously several times to ensure the mercury column drops below 35°C, preparing it for the next measurement.
3. Select the Measurement Site
Depending on the situation, body temperature can be measured in the mouth, armpit, or rectum. For adults, oral and axillary measurements are commonly used. For infants and young children, who may not cooperate with oral measurement, rectal temperature measurement is typically preferred.
4. Proper Placement of the Thermometer
If measuring oral temperature, place the mercury end of the thermometer under the tongue, close the lips tightly, and breathe through the nose. If measuring axillary temperature, place the mercury end in the center of the armpit, press the arm tightly against the body, and ensure the thermometer is in close contact with the skin. If measuring rectal temperature, first lubricate the tip of the thermometer with oil, then gently insert it into the anus approximately 2-3 cm.
5. Reading the Temperature
The typical measurement duration is about 5 minutes. After removing the thermometer, view the mercury column directly at eye level and read the scale corresponding to the highest point of the mercury column; this is the current body temperature.
Note: Exercise caution when using a mercury thermometer to avoid breakage and potential mercury leakage. If the thermometer is accidentally broken, immediately open windows for ventilation, wear gloves, and carefully collect the mercury using tools such as cardboard or cotton swabs. Place the collected mercury into a sealed container and hand it over to a professional waste disposal agency. After use, clean and disinfect the thermometer, and store it in a dry, cool place.
