Why are mercury thermometers no longer used?
Why are mercury thermometers no longer used?
The reason: Mercury released into the environment from a broken thermometer is highly poisonous. So government and state agencies have mounted campaigns to end the use of thermometers that contain the liquid metal. Federal and state authorities have lobbied since 2002 for bans on medical mercury thermometers.
How do you take someone’s temperature with a mercury thermometer?
ORAL TEMPERATURE After shaking the mercury down, place the thermometer under the child’s tongue, with the bulb toward the back of the mouth. Tell your child to keep the lips firmly closed, but not to bite the thermometer. 3. Leave the thermometer in place for 3 minutes.
Are mercury thermometers more accurate?
But mercury thermometers also have real advantages over the alternatives. They’re often cheaper and more accurate, especially at higher temperatures. And unlike one common alternative, electronic thermometers, they’re self-contained (no wires sticking out) and require no power.
How long do you keep a mercury thermometer in your mouth?
3 minutes
Mouth: Place the probe under the tongue and close the mouth. Breathe through the nose. Use the lips to hold the thermometer tightly in place. Leave the thermometer in the mouth for 3 minutes or until the device beeps.
Is a mercury thermometer better than a digital thermometer?
Digital thermometers provide fast results as opposed to mercury thermometers whose readings are slower to realize because you have to wait for the mercury to heat and then slowly rise to display the temperature. Mercury thermometers are also designed to withstand boiling temperatures.
Are non mercury thermometers accurate?
Scale Divisions and Accuracy Limits Non-mercury thermometers have scale divisions equal to mercury thermometers. Most range from 0.5° to 1° C. Accuracy limits for non-mercury thermometers below 150° C are also compatible with mercury thermometers; accuracy is typically ± 1° – 2° C.
Are mercury thermometers accurate?
Mercury thermometers provide accurate temperature readings and can be used orally, rectally, or under the arm. They don’t require batteries.
Why does my temperature go up at night?
Did you know that temperature fluctuations at night are completely normal? So, if you’re finding that you have a high body temperature that’s disturbing your sleep, know that you’re not alone. In fact, it’s part of your body’s circadian rhythm or internal clock, helping to control your sleep cycle.
