Choosing an Ideal Thermometer Based on Your Child’s Age

Gone are the days when parents had no choice in terms of thermometer for kids. The market today is replete with options varying in type and price, from which the choice can be made. Although they all perform their job, getting one that best suits your kid’s age and temperament makes it easier to get an accurate, easy and quick reading.  Here is a parent’s guide to choosing the best thermometer for their kids:

Mercury and Glass

This old-fashioned thermometer which at one point used to be the only choice in town. Although economical and accurate, it takes a lot of time to get the reading: three minutes both rectally and orally. It is also easy to break and needs to be handled with care. Its rectal version is ideal for kids under the age of 3 while oral type suits those aged 3 or more.

Underarm Thermometer

As the name suggests, this is the type of thermometer that is held in the armpit for a few seconds. This user-friendly thermometer is easy to use and gives an accurate reading when kept firmly under the arm for the required time. This is ideal for kids who can’t tolerate oral or rectal readings such as infants.

Pacific Thermometer

This is the best solution for kids who resist the usage of the regular thermometer. The thermometer stays hidden in a pacifier nipple and needs to be firmly kept in a child’s mouth for about three minutes to get an accurate reading. This is ideal for kids aged 1 to 3.

Digital Thermometer

This is an advanced version of the old-fashioned thermometer with a distinct advantage i.e. speed. It takes one minute or less for these thermometers to beep as an indication of the reading. The only drawback these thermometers have is that they are battery dependent and might run out of power when required. Its rectal version is ideal for kids under 3 while the oral type is suitable for kids above 3 years of age.

Forehead Thermometer

This thermometer is in the form of strips that are held against the child’s forehead for a minute or two to get a reading. Although easy to use, they do not give an accurate reading all the time.  These are mostly used on new-born babies.

Ear Thermometer

This is a type of digital thermometer that takes quick and painless temperature within seconds when placed in a kid’s ear. However, you must know the proper technique to use it in order to get an accurate reading. It is a bit costly and is ideal for kids aged 1 and above.

Nowadays, it has become easier to purchase medical equipment online. Thermometers must be chosen based on your child’s needs and requirements. You can get your hands on a suitable thermometer or other medical aids from platforms like Smart Medical Buyer, a leading online distributor of medical supplies.