Inspection and Preparation Before Use
1. Check for integrity: Ensure the new thermometer has no cracks and the mercury column is continuous to prevent mercury leakage due to damage.
2. Disinfection: Wipe the mercury end with a 75% alcohol cotton ball, or soak for 30 minutes for disinfection (chlorine-based disinfectant should be used for patients with special infections).
3. Resetting the mercury column: Hold the end of the thermometer and gently shake your wrist to lower the mercury column below 35℃, avoiding contact with hard objects.
Measurement Methods and Steps
1. Axillary measurement (most common):
Dry the armpit sweat, place the mercury end firmly against the skin, and hold for 10 minutes.
Normal value: 36-37℃.
2. Oral measurement:
Place the mercury end under the tongue, close your mouth for 5 minutes, avoiding talking or biting.
Normal value: 36.3-37.2℃.
3. Rectal measurement (suitable for infants and young children):
After applying lubricant, insert 3-4 cm into the anus, and remove after 3 minutes.
Reading and Storage
Correct reading: Rotate the thermometer horizontally, keeping your line of sight level with the top of the mercury column, avoiding looking down or up.
Disinfection and storage: After measurement, disinfect again with alcohol, shake the mercury column down to below 35℃, put on the protective cover, and store in a cool, dry place.
Safety Precautions
Avoid breakage: Choose a spacious location when shaking the thermometer, away from magnetic fields and hard objects.
Emergency handling: If the thermometer breaks, immediately open the windows for ventilation, collect the mercury with a piece of cardboard and seal and discard it, avoiding direct contact.
