Learn how to Use an Ear Thermometer. Mercury thermometers are the old, reliable standbys for determining whether you or your child has a fever.
Many digital devices, such as mercury-free oral thermometers, mercury-free rectal thermometers, and even ear thermometers, have hit the market. The new types feature digital displays that make reading them much easier.
A digital-display ear thermometer is one of the foremost noninvasive methods for checking an uncooperative child’s temperature without discomfort or guesswork. Nevertheless, it features the correct method for getting the most accurate readings.
Ear Thermometer
An ear thermometer, also known as a tympanic thermometer, is a type of medical device used to measure the temperature inside the ear canal. It uses infrared technology to detect the heat emitted by the eardrum, which reflects the body’s core temperature.
Ear thermometers are commonly used to quickly and noninvasively measure body temperature, especially in infants, children, and adults who have difficulty holding a traditional oral thermometer under the tongue or require frequent temperature monitoring.
Ear thermometers are typically handheld devices consisting of a probe or sensor inserted into the ear canal and a display showing the measured temperature. The probe is usually covered with a disposable or reusable probe cover to maintain hygiene and prevent cross-contamination.
The probe is inserted gently into the ear canal to measure the temperature, and the thermometer is activated. The infrared sensor then measures the thermal radiation emitted by the eardrum and provides a temperature reading on the display within seconds.
Ear thermometers are known for their speed and ease of use. They provide quick and accurate temperature measurements without the need for invasive methods. However, to ensure accurate results, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and position the probe correctly in the ear canal.
5 Must-Knows Before Taking Temperature in Your Ear
1. What Should the Temperature Be in Your Ear?
Medical experts agree that accurate temperature readings can be made by probing the armpit, anus, oral cavity, forehead, and ear.
However, the benchmarks for temperature normal in each specific region require some discussion because there is quite a bit of variance. Refer to the ear thermometer fever chart below.
Ear Thermometer Fever Chart
1. A normal oral temperature is 98.6°F (37°C)
2. A normal forehead temperature is 98.1°F (36.7°C) to 97.6°F (36.4°C)
3. A normal armpit temperature is also 98.1°F (36.7°C) to 97.6°F (36.4°C)
4. A normal anal temperature is 99.1°F (37.3°C) to 98.6°F (37°C)
5. A normal ear temperature is also 99.1°F (37.3°C) to 98.6°F (37°C)
2. What is Considered a Fever with An Ear Thermometer?
When a child’s temperature reading using an anal or ear thermometer is 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, this is evidence of a possible fever.
The anal thermometer is thought to be the most accurate method for children under 2 years of age. Experts suggest taking about 3 readings with an ear thermometer to ensure accuracy.
3. Does One Add a Degree to An Ear Thermometer?
You do not have to add a degree to the ear thermometer. Doctors use a chart like the one above to determine whether the temperature is high for the type of thermometer used.
Many try to simplify the process by asking their doctors, “Do you add a degree to an ear thermometer?”
This would only be helpful as a general rule of thumb for detecting severe fevers. In the long run, it becomes more confusing than useful.
4. When Should You Not Use An Ear Thermometer?
Even the simplest ear thermometers, like the ThermoPro Digital Medical Infrared Thermometer, can give misreadings if the patient has a buildup of wax in their ears.
To obtain accurate readings, the patient must first have a doctor remove the wax using a Waterpik device or drops of wax softener to flush it out.
You should never attempt to remove the wax yourself because the ear’s surface is as delicate as the eye’s retina.
Even micro-scratches can cause swelling and pain. Inserting objects in the ear can cause hearing damage and injury.
You should also avoid contact with the ear if the patient has ear pain, infection, or has recently had surgery.
5. Can You Put An Ear Thermometer in Your Mouth?
You should never try to take the temperature of your oral cavity by inserting an ear thermometer into your mouth.
Taking the temperature in the ear should only be done if the patient’s ears are healthy enough to accept it. Otherwise, you should use an oral thermometer to check the oral temperature.
The ear thermometer reading wouldn’t be accurate if you used it within the mouth because it’s calibrated for ear temperatures.
12 Steps to Assist You in Using an Ear Thermometer Correctly
Step 1 – Check Ears
To get a clean ear thermometer reading, you must ensure that the patient’s or child’s ears are clean.
Any waxy buildup within the auditory meatus will inhibit the ThermoPro Ear Thermometer from obtaining an accurate reading. You must also ensure the patient has been inactive for at least 15 minutes.
Step 2 – Clean Ears
You can use products that gently soften earwax and the soft rubber bulb to flush out excess wax. However, you must be careful not to use Q-tips or other abrasive tissues to probe into the ear.
These materials will leave micro-scratches that can become infected quickly and cause the ear to swell.
Never use the probe if the ear canal is swollen or infected or if the patient complains of pain.
Step 3 – Sanitize the Tip
You can purchase isopropyl alcohol packets, which are used to sterilize skin before injections and to clean the tip of the digital thermometer.
You can also use these wipes or a cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol (isopropyl) to remove any waxy residue on the outer surface of the ear. Some ear thermometers have disposable sterile tips to reduce the chance of spreading infections. If so, place a new sterile tip over the thermometer probe.
Step 4 – Adjust Ear Position
The probe must be inserted deep enough to create a seal to get an accurate reading. This allows the thermometer to bounce an infrared signal off the internal eardrum to work out the temperature. The probe does not have to touch the eardrum. However, the ear canal should be as straight as possible.
To straighten the ear canal, you should gently pull straight back on a child’s ear or up and back if the patient is an adult. This will help to ease the probe in without discomfort and ensure the most accurate reading.
Step 5 – Take a Temperature Reading
Once the thermometer is sealed in the canal, you can initiate the temperature reading process. Most thermometers require you to hold the probe in place until it beeps or lights flash. Always be sure to store any temperatures in the digital unit.
If the thermometer doesn’t have a memory feature, write down the temperatures to keep a consistent log throughout the illness. A digital ear thermometer offers speed and accuracy.
Step 6 – Consider Temperature Variations
Establishing a baseline temperature range for your child or patient is useful for accurately gauging current temperatures. Because normal body temperatures can vary between sexes, ages, and even different time frames, it is important to consider all the factors if a low-level fever is in question.
Menstruation, activity level, time of day, and even consuming a meal can subtly affect temperature readings.
Step 7 – Assess the Health of the Patient
You cannot rely on body temperature readings alone to determine whether a patient is suffering from a low-grade fever. Furthermore, it is essential to use many different types of thermometers to confirm a high reading.
Never rely on a single ear thermometer reading alone to make a diagnosis. Taking the temperature in the ear is fast and easy, but it is not the only method.
Take multiple readings and determine whether your patient has classic fever symptoms such as loss of appetite, sweating while inactive at room temperature, body aches, weakness, headaches, and increased thirst. Children may feel normal even if their temperatures are 100.4 °F (38 °C) and may be sick with a normal temperature.
Step 8 – Know When to Consult a Doctor
A fever is your body’s way of fighting off a viral or bacterial infection by raising the temperature to kill the foreign pathogens. A fever is technically anything 100.4 °F (38 °C) or higher.
If your child is over 1 year old and seems to be playing and sleeping, this type of fever should be rechecked regularly, but there is no reason for alarm.
Medical intervention is necessary when fevers reach 102°F (38.9 °C) or higher and are accompanied by symptoms such as coughing, diarrhea, irritability, lethargy, and restlessness. An emergency room visit is only necessary when a fever reaches 103°F (39.4 °C) or higher.
At these temperatures, the patient may convulse or hallucinate and become severely irritated and confused. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is the typical treatment for reducing fever. Ibuprofen cannot be given to children under 6 months for the same reason.
Step 9 – Monitor the Patient
You must continue to monitor the patient’s health to ensure that the fever does not return or elevate. If they begin taking Tylenol, ensure that none of the other medications they take contain acetaminophen. Too much acetaminophen is toxic and can cause liver damage or death.
Step 10 – Electrolyte Drinks
There are drinks on the market, such as Pedialyte, that restore the natural balance of electrolytes in a child’s body. If a child is drinking a lot of fluids but is not eating, this can help restore their body chemistry and speed up recovery.
Step 11 – Sanitize the Thermometer
Before you return your thermometer to its packaging, you should re-sanitize it by wiping the tip and any contact points with a propyl wipe or cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Let it air dry. Rubbing alcohol often contains a percentage of water that can harbor germs and help them grow if you let the instrument incubate.
Step 12 – Store in a Safe Place
If your digital thermometer has batteries, it may be best to remove them before storing the device. Certain kinds of batteries can leak and damage the device and its terminals.
Battery life will also be diminished if the batteries are not removed. However, some medical devices have specially made batteries that can be kept in the device and are not easily removable. Always read the instructions of your device thoroughly to determine whether the batteries should be removed.
(FAQs)
Q: How do I use an ear thermometer?
A: Using an ear thermometer is generally straightforward. Here are the basic steps:
Prepare the thermometer: Ensure that the ear thermometer is clean and has a new disposable lens or probe cover if the model requires it.
Position the person: For children, gently pull the earlobe back to straighten the ear canal. For adults, gently pull the earlobe up and back to straighten the ear canal.
Insert the thermometer: Carefully insert the probe into the ear canal, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid pushing too hard or inserting too profoundly to prevent injury to the eardrum.
To take the reading, press the button or trigger on the thermometer to initiate the measurement. Hold the thermometer steady until you hear a beep, indicating the reading is complete.
Interpret the reading: The thermometer will display the temperature reading on the screen or provide an audible signal. Read and interpret the temperature according to the manufacturer’s guidelines or as per standard temperature ranges.
Clean and store the thermometer: Clean the probe or lens cover according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and store the thermometer in a cool, dry place.
Q: Are there any additional tips for using an ear thermometer?
A: Yes, here are some additional tips for using an ear thermometer:
Check for proper fit: Ensure that the probe is inserted into the ear canal properly, as improper positioning can affect the accuracy of the reading. Pulling the earlobe to straighten the ear canal can help ensure a proper fit.
Avoid using an infected ear: If the person has an ear infection or inflammation, it’s best to avoid using an ear thermometer as it may provide inaccurate readings.
Clean the probe: Clean the probe before and after each use, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid immersing the entire thermometer in water unless specified by the manufacturer.
Consider the person’s age: Ear thermometers are generally not recommended for infants under 6 months, as their ear canals are typically too small for accurate readings. It’s best to use a rectal thermometer for infants per the pediatrician’s recommendation.
Take multiple readings: If the readings vary significantly, consider taking multiple readings and averaging them for accurate results.
Remember that ear temperature may differ from core body temperature: Ear temperature may not always accurately reflect the core body temperature, as it can be affected by external temperature, earwax, and ear infections.
Q: When should I use an ear thermometer?
A: Ear thermometers are commonly used to measure body temperature in infants, children, and adults. They are often used in situations where a quick and noninvasive temperature measurement is needed, such as for infants who are unable to hold a traditional thermometer under their tongue or for monitoring fever in children or adults.
Q: What are the advantages of using an ear thermometer?
A: There are several advantages of using an ear thermometer:
Speed: Ear thermometers provide quick temperature readings, typically within seconds.
Non-invasive: Ear thermometers are non-invasive and do not require contact with mucous membranes or bodily fluids, making them more comfortable and hygienic.
Easy to use: Ear thermometers are generally easy to use, with simple one-button operation in most cases.
Suitable for all ages: Ear thermometers can measure body temperature in infants, children, and adults, making them versatile for family use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using an ear thermometer can be a convenient and effective way to measure body temperature, especially for infants, young children, and individuals who may have difficulty using other thermometers. Remember, ear thermometers are not foolproof and may have limitations, such as accuracy issues due to earwax or other factors.
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