Mercury Thermometer

Where It’s Used:

Mercury thermometers are widely used in homes for personal fever monitoring, in hospitals and clinics for accurate temperature assessments by medical professionals, and in laboratories for precise temperature measurements in research settings.

Pros:

Mercury thermometers provide highly accurate temperature readings compared to many digital alternatives. They do not require batteries or a power source, making them reliable and long-lasting. With proper care, they can be used for years without losing accuracy. They are versatile and suitable for oral, underarm, and rectal temperature measurement.

How to Use:

To use a mercury thermometer, shake it gently to bring the mercury level below 35°C (95°F). Place the thermometer in the desired position—under the tongue for oral use, in the armpit for underarm measurement, or gently inserted into the rectum for infants. Keep it in place for the recommended duration: about two to three minutes for oral use, three to five minutes for underarm use, and one to two minutes for rectal use. Once the time has passed, remove the thermometer and hold it at eye level to read the temperature against the scale. After use, clean the thermometer with an alcohol swab or a mild disinfectant before storing it safely.

Safety is important when handling mercury thermometers. Avoid dropping or breaking them, as mercury is toxic. In case of breakage, do not touch the mercury directly and follow proper disposal guidelines to prevent contam