Question

Identify the correct precaution that should be taken while using a clinical thermometer.

• A. It should be kept in sunlight for at least 30 minutes before usage.
• B. The level of mercury should be kept in line of sight .
• C. It should not be washed before use.
• D. Hold the thermometer by its bulb.

Answer 1

The correct option is B

The level of mercury should be kept in line of sight .

Option C is correct.

The various precautions to be taken while reading a clinical thermometer are:

1. The correct way to read a thermometer is by keeping the level of mercury along the line of sight. When we read the temperature on a thermometer, it should be vertical and our eyes should be levelled with the top of the liquid in the glass tube.

2. The thermometer should be washed before and after use, preferably with an antiseptic solution.

3. Ensure that the mercury level is below 35 °C.

4. Do not hold the thermometer bulb while reading.

5. Handle the thermometer with care, if it hits a hard object it will break.