Fever is our body's way to tackle with a viral or bacterial infection. This rise in our normal body temperature is not bad. The reason is that when our body releases heat, the foreign organisms in our body will not survive. This means that fever
fights off illness. When a child has fever, it is important to monitor the temperature and the way to do this is through the use of a thermometer. You have to bear in mind that the normal body temperature is 36-36.8ºC if temperature is taken orally.
The thermometer that we often use to measure our body temperature is the traditional mercury thermometers. These are being phased out because of the mercury that it contains. Mercury is a very
toxic chemical that can cause poisoning when swallowed or when our skin comes into contact with it. Modern thermometers like the digital ones do not contain mercury in them. Hence, they are safer to use. In addition, they give more accurate and fast temperature readings than the old thermometers.
When using a
digital thermometer through the mouth, keep the thermometer in place without shifting it in the mouth. It is better to do it orally when your patient is below five years old. Also, never leave your child while taking the temperature to assure proper use of the thermometer.
