How do you reset a glass thermometer?
Glass thermometers don’t always reset themselves after you take a temperature. Grab it at the end away from the tip and swing the thermometer back and forth. Check to make sure it goes down below at least 96.8 °F (36.0 °C); it needs to be under the average body temperature.
Does a thermometer have mercury?
The oldest thermometers used are mercury in glass. Newer thermometers include non-mercury liquids in glass and digital and electronic devices that use sensors to measure temperature. Thermometers that check body temperature in the ear, across the forehead, or have a digital display do not contain mercury.
Why is my glass thermometer not working?
If the thermometer has been subjected to over temperatures, the glass will be cracked right at the expansion chamber. If cracked, the thermometer is useless and should be disposed of properly.
Can a glass thermometer stopped working?
However, if your thermometer has seemingly stopped working, you can repair it by placing the thermometer in a refrigerator or freezer. If it’s cold enough, it may restore the mercury column on your thermometer.
What is the normal oral temperature?
The average body temperature is 98.6 F (37 C). But normal body temperature can range between 97 F (36.1 C) and 99 F (37.2 C) or more.
How do you check a temperature without a thermometer?
Checking for a fever without a thermometer
- Touching the forehead. Touching a person’s forehead with the back of the hand is a common method of telling whether or not they have a fever.
- Pinching the hand.
- Looking for flushing in the cheeks.
- Checking urine color.
- Looking for other symptoms.
How long do you keep a mercury thermometer under your tongue?
three minutes
By mouth. Insert the thermometer’s probe under your tongue and close your lips over it tightly to hold it in place. Leave it in your mouth for three minutes or until it beeps. In the armpit (also called the axillary method).
Are mercury thermometers accurate?
Above 100° C mercury thermometers have an accuracy range of ± 1.5° C, while non-mercury have an accuracy limit of ± 3° C.
What happens if you touch mercury from a thermometer?
Mercury is a very toxic or poisonous substance that people can be exposed to in several ways. If it is swallowed, like from a broken thermometer, it mostly passes through your body and very little is absorbed. If you touch it, a small amount may pass through your skin, but not usually enough to harm you.
Can mercury thermometers go bad?
Do Thermometers Expire? Thermometers do not expire, but they do have to eventually be replaced. Digital thermometers will last about 3 to 5 years, while mercury thermometers will last indefinitely as long as they aren’t cracked or damaged.