Tympanic thermometer
For : Children older than 2 years.
Beware! Instead of being in direct contact with the TM, today’s tympanic thermometers measure the thermal radiation emitted from the TM and the ear canal, and have therefore been called infrared radiation emission detectors (IRED). However, the Canadian Paediatric Society recommends continuing to take the temperature of children under two years rectally until a suitable cap is fabricated for tympanic thermometers.
And don’t worry: earwax, ear infections and ear tubes, however, do not interfere with accurate readings.
How to take a tympanic temperature?
- If the child was outdoors on a cold or windy day, it is recommended to wait 15 minutes (indoors!) before taking his temperature.
- An accurate temperature depends on pulling the ear backward to straighten the ear canal.
- Insert the tip of the thermometer in the ear and press on the button. You’ll have the temperature within a few seconds.
Normal temperature range with this method
From 35.8 °C to 38.0 °C (96.4 °F to 100.4 °F)
Source : Canadian Paediatric Society
What to think about Pacifier thermometers?
These products are not recommended for many reasons. Their readings are less reliable than rectal temperatures and shouldn't be used in infants younger than 3 months. They also require kids to keep the pacifier in their mouth for several minutes without moving, which is a nearly impossible task for most babies and toddlers.
Hygiene
Remember to wash and sanitize the thermometer after each use, otherwise the risk of spreading germs multiplies. Always wash the thermometer before storing it in a safe place. It’s a fragile object that must be handled with care.
Choosing a thermometer
The choice is up to parents. First, rely on the method you must use with your child, according to his age. The choice can then be influenced by several factors. For an informed choice, just ask your pharmacist for advice. He will explain the advantages and disadvantages of all models:
- Convenience (size, weight, style, etc.)
- Possibility to take the temperature in more than one location (rectum, armpit and mouth) rather than an ear thermometer.
- Casing
- Response time
- Accuracy
- The safety of the infrared tympanic thermometer
- Audio signal when the reading is done
- Indicator for rectal insertion
- Results shown in Fahrenheit or Celsius
- Product strength
For their user-friendly aspect, mothers often prefer to use ear thermometers. Their practicality is undeniable: you can take the child's temperature when he’s sleeping without disturbing him. No need to wake him up! A sick child is already not very cooperative, so let’s not complicate things. After all, the important thing is to be able to determine whether the child has a fever or not, and then whether it goes up or down. You’re not doing a statistical study!
What about you? How do you proceed at home? Email us.
Sources : University of Michigan Health System and Canadian Paediatric Society.
