A temporal artery thermometer is a non-invasive device that enables you to measure body temperature by using infrared technology to scan the temporal artery. It is a quick and easy way of taking a person’s temperature, making it an ideal tool for medical professionals and parents alike. In this article, we will explain how to use a temporal artery thermometer and get accurate results.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Temporal Artery Thermometer
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a temporal artery thermometer:
Step 1: Clean the Thermometer
Before using the thermometer, ensure that the tip of the thermometer is clean. You can clean it with a soft cloth or cotton swab moistened with alcohol. This is a vital step in ensuring accuracy when measuring temperature.
Step 2: Check the Patient’s Temperature
Before taking the patient’s temperature, ensure that they haven’t had a cold or anything to eat or drink in the past 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 3: Position the Thermometer
Position the thermometer directly onto the skin. Place it in the center of the forehead in the middle of the eyebrows. Make sure it is touching the skin and not the clothes or hair.
Step 4: Take the Temperature
Press the button on the thermometer to start the scan. The thermometer will beep after a few seconds, indicating that the scan is complete, and the temperature reading will show on the screen.
Step 5: Record the Temperature
Record the temperature in a safe place for later reference.
Tips for Accurate Results
Here are some tips to ensure that the thermometer gives accurate results:
Tip 1: Keep the Thermometer Clean
Cleaning the thermometer tip with alcohol between uses is essential to ensure accuracy.
Tip 2: Proper Placement
Proper placement is critical to accurate results. Make sure that the thermometer is in the middle of the forehead, touching the skin, not the hair.
Tip 3: Wait Between Readings
If you need to take multiple readings, wait for a few minutes before taking the next one, as the thermometer needs time to cool down before it can give an accurate reading.
Who Can Use a Temporal Artery Thermometer?
A temporal artery thermometer is suitable for both adults and children. It is particularly helpful for parents with young children since they can take the temperature without the need for invasive measures such as putting a thermometer under the tongue or using an ear thermometer.
How Accurate is a Temporal Artery Thermometer?
A temporal artery thermometer is considered an accurate method of measuring body temperature. It has an accuracy rate of 97.5%, making it the most reliable thermometer for measuring body temperature.
Advantages of Using a Temporal Artery Thermometer
Here are some of the benefits of using a temporal artery thermometer:
- Easy to use
- Non-invasive
- Quick results
- Suitable for adults and children
- Accurate
Conclusion
A temporal artery thermometer is a reliable, non-invasive, easy-to-use device that provides quick and accurate readings of body temperature. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can use a temporal artery thermometer and get accurate results.
Common Questions and Answers
- Q: What is a temporal artery thermometer?
- A: A temporal artery thermometer is a non-invasive device that enables you to measure body temperature by using infrared technology to scan the temporal artery.
- Q: How do I clean my temporal artery thermometer?
- A: You can clean the thermometer tip with a soft cloth or cotton swab moistened with alcohol.
- Q: Is a temporal artery thermometer accurate?
- A: Yes, a temporal artery thermometer is considered to be accurate, with an accuracy rate of 97.5%.
- Q: Who can use a temporal artery thermometer?
- A: A temporal artery thermometer is suitable for both adults and children.
- Q: What are the advantages of using a temporal artery thermometer?
- A: Some of the benefits of using a temporal artery thermometer include ease of use, non-invasiveness, quick results, suitability for both adults and children, and accuracy.
References
- Temporal artery thermometry for fever diagnosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Medicine. Volume 7, Article number: 29 (2009).
- Improving accuracy of temperature measurement in adults and children using non-invasive temporal artery thermometer. British Journal of Nursing. June 27, 2019.