Question

Mention the precautions taken during the handling of a clinical thermometer.

Answer 1

Precautions to be taken while reading temperature using a clinical thermometer:-
1. Wash the thermometer before and after every use with an antiseptic lotion and handle it with care. If it hits against some hard object, it can break because it is a very delicate thing.
2. See that the mercury levels are below 35 degrees and do not hold the thermometer near its bulb while reading the temperature.
3. While noting down the temperature from the thermometer, place the mercury level along the line of eye sight.
4. Do not place the thermometer near a hot flame and also do not expose it to the direct sun light.
5. Always shook the thermometer before checking the temperature levels, so that the mercury comes back to its initial point i.e. where it had been before the temperature was taken