Thermometers

Measuring Body Temperature with the Thermometer

Thermometers are simple, yet very helpful diagnostic instruments that are used for the accurate determination of a patient's body temperature. A heightened body temperature or fever could for example hint to illnesses or inflammations. In medicine, one differentiates between classic thermometers, and digital thermometers.

Thermometers with digital temperature displays can include ear thermometers, forehead thermometers or universally applicable probe thermometers. Depending on measurement and device type, the thermometer can determine body temperature using varying methods. A contact thermometer carries out the measurement either orally, axillary or rectally, whereas newer devices use non-contact, infrared measurement. The readings are generally displayed either in degree Celsius (°C) or in Fahrenheit (°F).

Classic Thermometers for Precise Measurements

The classic thermometer works according to the principle of expansion: depending on the body temperature, the liquid in its glass capillaries expands. While many used mercury thermometers in the past, today's classic thermometers are filled with galinstan instead of the toxic mercury. After each measurement, the medical instrument has to be reset to prevent falsified results. When used correctly, this type of thermometer measures reliably and accurately.

Since the classic thermometer is a closed and waterproof device, it is very easy to clean and disinfect. In contrast to the digital thermometer, it does not need any batteries or power supply. The classic fever thermometer can be used for axillar (temperature measurement in the armpit), rectal (temperature measurement in the rectum) and oral / sublingual (temperature measurement underneath the tongue) measurements.

Digital Thermometers Provide Comfortable Measurements

The digital thermometer surpasses the classic thermometer in many areas, as it excels through a short measurement time and simple operation while being just as precise as the classic device. As most digital thermometers are waterproof, they can be cleaned and disinfected without problems.

Moreover, digital thermometers are equipped with many special features and functions. Some thermometers are for example equipped with a flexible tip, to facilitate oral and rectal measurements. Other thermometers possess fever alarms - they signal extreme body temperatures with acoustical or optical indicators.

Thanks to digital displays, e.g. LCD displays, the results are always visible and easy-to-read. Some displays are even backlit, making them ideal for rooms with poor lighting. Many devices also include storage space, which allows for problem-free, procedural control. Furthermore, some devices also have an automatic switchoff, which shuts down the thermometer after concluding the measurement; some even have a battery change display.

Touch-Free Measurement with the Infrared Thermometer

Infrared thermometers (IRTs) determine the temperature by measuring the thermal output of the eardrum or forehead. Infrared measurement is carried out without contact, which makes such hygienic devices excellent for use in hospitals and surgeries. The diagnostic instruments are available as infrared ear thermometers and infrared forehead thermometers and measure the heat emission of the eardrum or the forehead. Since a non-contact measurement with an infrared thermometer only takes a few seconds, this method is ideal for temperature determination in babies and toddlers.

Probe Thermometers for Adults and Children

With this type of medical thermometer, the temperature is measured through a probe. Usually, contact thermometers can be used on adults, children and babies. Probe thermometers can be operated with probe covers, allowing for a hygienic use in surgeries and hospitals. Additionally, the temperature can be measured orally, axillary or rectally.

Ear Thermometer for Temperature Measurement in the Auditory Canal

Forehead Thermometers Offer Optimal Patient Comfort

Large Selection of Thermometers

At Praxisdienst, you will find a large selection of various classic and digital thermometers from name brand manufacturers, such as Beurer, Braun, Omron or Welch Allyn.

While ear thermometers and forehead thermometers are great for temperature determination in children and babies, thanks to their short and soft measurement style, the SureTemp Plus thermometer from Welch Allyn is particularly flexible in application and can be switched between measurements for children and adults. The SureTemp is used with disposable covers and saves prior readings.

Whether you use axillar, rectal, oral or contact-free infrared measurement: explore the wide range of high-quality thermometers, with various measurement styles, in our online shop! Would you like to buy a thermometer and have questions about our devices or delivery options? Our friendly customer service is happy to assist via telephone, e-mail or live-chat.