I. Calibration and Comparative Testing
1. Regular Calibration
Electronic thermometers are recommended to be calibrated every 6 months. This can be done by comparing it with a mercury thermometer (ensure the mercury column is intact) or by testing it with 40℃ warm water. If the error exceeds 0.3℃, contact after-sales service for repair.
2. Multiple Measurements and Averaging
Take 3-5 consecutive measurements in the same environment and under the same conditions, and use the average value as a reference value to reduce random errors. For example, when comparing an electronic thermometer with a mercury thermometer, the results of multiple measurements should be close (temperature difference ≤ 0.1℃).
II. Checking Equipment Status
1. Mercury Thermometer
Observe whether the mercury column is intact and the scale is clear, avoiding reading deviations due to wear or light refraction.
Before use, shake it down to below 35℃ to ensure it is in its initial state before measurement.
2. Electronic/Infrared Thermometer
Check that the probe is clean to avoid dust or skin debris affecting infrared sensing.
Confirm that the battery power is sufficient; preheat the battery compartment in low-temperature environments.
III. Environment and Operating Procedures
1. Controlling Environmental Temperature
Infrared thermometers should be used in an environment of 10-40℃, avoiding direct sunlight or interference from air conditioning vents. If the person being measured has come from outdoors, they need to wait 15 minutes to adapt to the environment.
2. Correct Operation
Forehead thermometer: Keep the probe 1-5 cm away from the forehead, avoiding contact with the skin.
Ear thermometer: Straighten the ear canal and gently insert the probe.
Mercury thermometer: For underarm measurement, hold it tightly for 5-10 minutes, and read the scale with your line of sight parallel to the liquid column.
IV. Accuracy Differences Between Different Thermometers
Mercury thermometer: Highest accuracy, but there is a risk of mercury leakage, and measurement takes longer.
Electronic thermometer: Better stability, and the temperature difference with a mercury thermometer is usually ≤ 0.1℃. Infrared thermometer: Highly susceptible to environmental factors; forehead thermometers tend to give higher readings, while ear thermometers are closer to core body temperature.
V. Handling Abnormal Situations
Persistent abnormal readings: If multiple measurements show significant fluctuations (e.g., temperature difference > 1°C), it is recommended to verify the reading with a traditional thermometer or seek medical attention.
Broken mercury thermometer: Immediately open windows for ventilation, collect the mercury with a cotton swab and seal it in a container for disposal to avoid mercury poisoning.
