What are the types of thermometers?
The most common types of thermometers are: • Plastic digital thermometer: It is inexpensive, accurate, and takes approximately one minute to register the temperature. It can be used to take an oral (mouth), axillary (underarm) or rectal (bottom) temperature. • Ear thermometer: It is more expensive and not quite as accurate—the temperature reading can vary a little depending on the positioning of the thermometer in the child’s ear—but it is generally adequate. The ear thermometer has the advantage of giving a quick temperature reading within seconds. • Glass mercury thermometer: This should not be used. If it breaks, it can leak toxic mercury vapor. Your local pharmacy may allow you to trade your old mercury thermometer for a new digital one. Otherwise, take your mercury thermometers to a hazardous waste collection center, or call your local poison control center or fire department to ask the safest way to dispose of them. Other newer types of thermometers include a pacifier thermometer
