One of the most important indicators of a person’s health and excellent condition is his temperature. Therefore, a thermometer is an indispensable accessory to any first aid kit.

Recently, infrared thermometers are beginning to gain more and more popularity. What are they and how to use such devices?

What are the advantages of infrared thermometers?

Measuring body temperature using such a thermometer is carried out using a special sensitive element that reacts to the infrared radiation of the body and reads information from it. The measurement results are displayed on the liquid crystal display. This new product appeared on the market quite recently, but has already managed to interest many buyers.

But, like any other similar device, an infrared thermometer has its advantages and disadvantages.

The advantages of the new product under discussion are the following:

1. Temperature measurement is very fast. The thermometer will only take a few seconds to show the result. The timing may vary, but is generally no longer than 30 seconds;
2. This thermometer comes with removable tips. They are very easy to separate for, for example, washing and disinfection. You can also purchase additional accessories;
3. Conveniently, these thermometers are non-contact, so you can easily measure the body temperature of even the youngest children while they sleep. In this case, the baby will not wake up or even feel anything;
4. The composition does not contain mercury or glass, so the device can be called as safe as possible;
5. Since such a thermometer is non-contact, it can be used to measure not only body temperature, but also water, air, etc.

But it is also worth mentioning some of the disadvantages of an infrared thermometer. Among them are the possibility of measurement errors, the possibility of injuring the eardrum when using an ear model for a child, as well as the high cost of such products.

How accurately does it measure temperature?

As mentioned above, infrared thermometers have several disadvantages. Among them is such a significant one as possible measurement error. For accurate results, the patient should sit as straight as possible and not move. This is quite difficult if the temperature is measured in a child.

Therefore, manufacturers initially warn buyers that the possible error of such a thermometer can be up to 0.4 degrees. Significant enough for some cases. There is a risk of error if the patient turns and moves during the temperature measurement process.

What types of infrared thermometers are there?

Today, several types of infrared thermometers are known. This ear, frontal And contactless.

Based on the name of the earpiece, it is already clear that it is designed to measure body temperature through the ear canal. When purchasing such a thermometer, you should pay attention that it comes with soft disposable tips. Some manufacturers equip their products with a whole set of such add-ons. They not only protect the measuring tip membrane, but also prevent damage to the eardrums of children and adults.

It is important to add that such devices give an inaccurate result if the patient suffers from inflammation of the middle ear. In such a situation, it is better to use a different type of thermometer.

The forehead model allows you to take the desired measurement by just lightly touching the skin on the forehead or temples. Immediately after this, the readings should appear on the display.

The non-contact thermometer is ideal for measuring body temperature in newborns. If you do this in your sleep, you won’t have to wake up your baby, and the measurement will be as accurate as possible. The results will appear on the screen in a couple of seconds. In this case, you do not need to touch the patient; the thermometer is brought to the temporal lobe at a distance of approximately 2 centimeters. This is enough for the device to read the necessary information.

This type of thermometer can also be used to measure the temperature of water or food, since it does not need to be immersed in a liquid or dish.

Review of popular infrared thermometers

It is often difficult for buyers to make a choice in favor of one device or another, since there are simply a huge number of them in the assortment of modern stores. Having studied reviews of the most popular products, it will be much easier to decide on a suitable model.

Frontal/ear thermometer B Well

This device is great for measuring temperature in the ears and temples. Allows you to get the most accurate results almost instantly. Measurement time – 3-4 seconds.

Perfect for small children, as it will not disturb or scare the baby in the process. Equipped with a special scanning mechanism that reads readings from several areas at once and records the maximum value. The device also remembers the last measurement. To obtain this data, you will need to hold the power button for several moments with the product turned off.

Contactless Sensitec nf 3101

Features of the Sensitek device include:

Ability to measure temperature from 32 to 42 degrees;
permissible distance for measurement is from 5 to 15 centimeters;
measurement speed in half a second;
automatic data saving (remembers up to 32 last measurements) and shutdown after 7 seconds of inactivity.

Moreover, this new product runs on two AA batteries and weighs only 170 grams. Equipped with a high temperature alarm. The device display is backlit, so you can use it even in the dark. It will be possible to measure not only the temperature of the body, but also of other surfaces.

Chicco Comfort Quick infrared ear thermometer for newborns

Designed for instant temperature measurement. Captures the heat generated by the eardrum. The miniature tip allows you to quickly and painlessly carry out the procedure, without disturbing the baby.

It has 25 memory positions, which are important for an accurate diagnosis. The previously measured temperature is also shown on the display.

It is possible to switch degrees between C and F. If the temperature exceeds 37.5 degrees, it sounds beep. The set also includes 20 special disposable caps.

Microlife NC100

The main advantages of the device under discussion are its non-contact nature and accuracy. Thanks to the first, you can measure the temperature even of a sleeping child and there is no need for constant disinfection, and thanks to the second, the maximum error can be no more than 0.2 degrees.

It will be possible to measure body temperature from 34 to 42 degrees. Conveniently, the display backlight changes its hue depending on the readings. So, if the result is below 37.4, it is green, and if it is higher, it is red. This convenient device weighs only 81 grams.

Where can I buy it and how much does it cost?

The cost of a thermometer depends primarily on its functions and design. You can purchase such devices at most pharmacies. For example, in Farmshop, IFC or “Eight Lives”. They are also sold in online stores. Such as: zdravzona.ru, mistermed.ru or 10i.ru.

The cost of the Microlife NC100 model starts from 1840 rubles. But for Chicco Comfort Quick for newborns you will need to pay an average of 2,600 rubles (prices are indicated at the time of writing and may differ at the moment).

The best thermometer hitherto was the mercury device, the appearance of which we owe to Galileo. The thermometer accurately determined the temperature of a person's body. Many parents trusted him and still trust him. The device is cheap, but has many disadvantages. That's why Manufacturers produce more advanced and better thermometers for measuring temperature. Their performance is virtually error-free if used according to instructions.

Before describing the models from which we have compiled a rating of infrared thermometers and electronic devices, I would like to draw the reader’s attention to the features of each type.

Pros and cons of different thermometers

Studying each thermometer, reviews, which one is better, you will have many questions. We will try to answer everything briefly and to the point, recording parents' reviews on a separate line.

Mercury reliable or safe?

Unfortunately, the mercury “master” has many disadvantages and only one advantage. It breaks easily, scattering into fragments and small balls of mercury, and standing for about 10 minutes with a thermometer under your arm is a real torture for boys and girls.

The best thermometer for children should be convenient and safe, many mothers are convinced of this, whose reviews we have previously studied, having scoured more than one parent forum.

Contender No. 1 – electronic thermometer

There are not many fans of this mini device, but they exist. Its advantages and disadvantages:

• Doesn't break
• Absolutely safe
• Often has a bendable tip
• Measures relatively quickly (about 5 minutes)
• Sometimes it's wrong by almost a degree
• Batteries need to be changed approximately every two years

The main advantage is safety! Therefore, when puzzled by the question “which thermometer for newborns is better?”, you can answer unequivocally – electronic.

Contender #2 – infrared ear thermometer

The miracle of technology allows you to measure body temperature very quickly. To do this, just bring it to your ear. The only thing you should not do is measure the temperature in the ear during otitis media. Firstly, the baby will be in pain, and secondly, the readings will be far from ideal.

Contender No. 3 – infrared non-contact

This meter does not need to be applied at all; it determines the temperature at a distance of about 5 cm. A pyrometer, as the best non-contact thermometer is also called, is convenient for measuring the temperature of the surface of an object, liquids and air.

The cost of this option is higher than the previous ones, and the measurement takes place in a split second. It is recommended to carry out measurements according to the manufacturer's instructions; most often it indicates a dry forehead, a certain distance, absence of drafts, and so on.

Which thermometer is better? Rating of thermometers 2018

7.Microlife MT 1931 – Switzerland

If you choose among the variety of companies, it is better to give preference to a brand that has been proven over the years. This thermometer beeps after one minute. But in pharmacies, pharmacists emphasize that after the signal you need to hold the thermometer for another two minutes. The best electronic thermometer stores the latest temperature readings. Has hypoallergenic bendable tip. Protected from water getting inside.

• Type of thermometer - electronic
• Measurement time: 1-3 minutes
• Accuracy - 0.1 °C
• Features: waterproof, hypoallergenic, stores last measurement in memory, allows rectal, oral and underarm measurements, auto power off

This is a good electronic thermometer according to numerous reviews. Disadvantages: lack of backlight. The lid covering the battery is weak, so you need to keep an eye on children who like to explore all the objects.

6.Omron Eco Temp Smart – Japan

When choosing an electronic thermometer, which one is better and more reliable is up to you. Many people trust when purchasing medical supplies Japanese technologies. This company has proven itself to be the best. The rating invites you to consider the best thermometer for newborns and older children, which will quickly measure the temperature and also not afraid of water.

According to users, the device may fail only in isolated cases: when it is necessary to replace the battery, or when the armpits are wet. To guarantee results, you need to hold the thermometer under your arm for 5-10 minutes. Most The ideal result will be obtained with rectal measurement; you only have to hold it for 10 seconds!

• Type of thermometer - electronic
• Measurement time – 5-10 minutes
• Accuracy - 0.1
• Features: waterproof, memory of last measurement, allows you to select the unit of measurement, measure rectally, orally and under the arm, automatically turns off. Case included.

Among the shortcomings, we note the mistakes that the best children's thermometers “make,” according to parents. But errors usually vary between 0.5-1 degrees. Well secured lid for the battery can be considered a disadvantage, but also an advantage of this thermometer. A child will not be able to reach a small battery, but a parent will need skill to replace it.

5.Little doctor LD- 303 – Singapore

This amazing and very good baby thermometer is suitable for all babies who are already trying out a pacifier. According to parents, this is an ideal option for measuring temperature, even if the baby is sleeping. True, the pacifier is not suitable for newborns, since most often they are at the mother’s breast, and the pacifier will be spat out.

Advantages of a pacifier thermometer in speed and accuracy of measurements, design, safety. The most accurate electronic thermometer imaginable. Moms who review the product are delighted with the invention. I wonder what after the measurement is completed, the device emits a signal(quite quiet and pleasant). But it can measure 10 seconds, or maybe 4 minutes. This is another reason to buy a thermometer only with those babies who love pacifiers.

• Type of thermometer: electronic oral
• Measurement time – 3-4 minutes
• Error – 0.1
• Features: silicone nipple, memory for the last measurement, sound signal at the end

4.Xiaomi iHealth Thermometer – South Korea

Finally it's time for infrared thermometers and the latest innovations. Next up super fast thermometer 2018 release. The infrared thermometer has positive reviews, although there are still few of them. Buyers write about him only in a positive way. “Easy to use,” “measurement accuracy,” “comfortable in the hand,” “measures lightning fast.”

You will always be aware of when replacement is required. power supplies (indicator). Remember that you need to measure in the middle of the forehead at a distance of up to 5 cm. After the measurement, the best non-contact thermometer for children makes a quiet sound. vibration signal, indicating completion.

• Type of thermometer – infrared, frontal (non-contact)
• Measurement time – 1 second
• Accuracy – 0.2 degrees
• Peculiarities: automatic shutdown, sound signal, operation on AA batteries, battery charge indicator

No shortcomings have been identified yet. This was to be expected from the new product, because there are not many real buyers yet and we are waiting for new reviews with you!

3.Beurer FT 65 – Germany

Good body thermometers from this company once won the prestigious Plus X Award for the best product. What's interesting about it? He combined in himself quality of contact and non-contact thermometer. That is, you can measure the temperature inside the ear, or you can get accurate readings in a split second without touching your forehead. This infrared thermometer stores up to 10 values. You will always know how quickly the child recovered.

If you wish, you can quickly measure the temperature of the water in the bathroom before bathing your baby. The most important thing is speed and reliability, and for a modern mother this is a powerful argument for purchasing and resolving the question “which thermometer is best to use for newborns?”

• Type of thermometer – infrared (forehead + ears)
• Measurement time - second
• Error – 0.2
• Features: you can measure the temperature of the liquid, remembers 10 readings, battery charge indicator, operation from finger-type power sources, sound signal, auto shutdown

We found no shortcomings in the device; the only “but” is the lack of moisture protection for the housing itself. And we continue to describe the best medical thermometers in the 2018 rating.

2.Omron Gentle Temp 720

The best infrared thermometer stores up to 25 readings in memory, and takes measurements in a second! It is enough to bring it at a distance of up to 3 cm. You can measure the temperature of any object, including liquids. Reviews say that it is very convenient to use the device, it is especially pleasant that you can control the room temperature, in which the child is located. The device is convenient to use at night - it works backlight.

Unfortunately, everyone has had to deal with such a nuisance as fever. Since childhood, we have become accustomed to having a thermometer under our armpits. But try measuring the temperature of a small child in this way, who is squirming, waving his arms and in no way wants to sit in his mother’s arms. A miracle of technology comes to the aid of parents - an electronic thermometer, or even a completely magical remedy - infrared. And this is where the problem arises. A lot of money has been paid, a miracle of technology is available, the temperature is obvious :-(, but the readings of the thermometer do not fit in any way. Defective? Most likely not, it’s just that electronic thermometers have their own specifics and simple rules for measuring temperature. So, how to measure temperature correctly : rectally, under the arm, in the mouth, on the forehead, taking into account the specifics of modern thermometers.

How to measure temperature correctly

How to measure temperature correctly with a mercury thermometer.

1. Wipe the armpit thoroughly with a napkin so that when measuring the temperature, the thermometer does not cool down due to the evaporation of sweat.
2. Place the thermometer so that the entire mercury reservoir is in contact with the body on all sides at the deepest point of the armpit and does not move while the temperature is being measured.
3. Press your shoulder and elbow against your body so that the armpit is covered and the thermometer does not move.
4. The time for measuring body temperature in the armpit is 7-10 minutes.

1. If you have removable dentures, they must be removed.
2. Place the tip of the thermometer under the tongue to the right or left of the frenulum.
3. The mouth must be kept tightly closed to prevent cold air from entering.
4. The time for measuring body temperature in the oral cavity is 3-5 minutes.

How to correctly measure temperature with an electronic thermometer.

1. The measurement time depends on the thermometer model. The instructions usually indicate that body temperature must be measured before the signal. On average it is from 30 seconds to 1 minute. BUT!
2. There is one caveat! The signal of many electronic thermometers is designed to measure rectal temperature. To obtain an adequate result from such a thermometer, you must hold it under your armpit for 5 minutes and ignore the signal.
3. When the thermometer is positioned correctly, the temperature in the mouth is measured before the signal.

1. Before insertion into the rectum, the tip of the thermometer should be lubricated with Vaseline or oil.
2. The adult patient takes a position on his side, the small child is placed on his stomach.
3. Turn on the thermometer, wait until the starting indicator is established (more details in the instructions for specific model).
4. The thermometer is smoothly inserted into the rectum to a depth of 2-3 cm.
5. After insertion, the thermometer is held between the straightened middle and index fingers. The buttocks should fit tightly against each other to eliminate the influence of cold air.
6. You cannot insert the thermometer abruptly, firmly fix it in the rectum, or move while measuring body temperature.
7. The time for measuring body temperature in the rectum is 1-2 minutes, or until the sound signal.

How to measure temperature correctly infrared thermometer.

1. Wipe off perspiration from your forehead if your forehead is damp, so that when measuring the temperature, sweat evaporation does not cool your forehead.
2. Turn on the thermometer and wait until the starting indicator is established (for more details, see the instructions for the specific model).
3. Place the thermometer on your left temple so that the surface of the thermometer is in full contact with your forehead.
4. Press the button and, holding it pressed (unless otherwise indicated in the instructions for a particular model), swipe from the left temple to the right. Make sure that the measuring surface does not come off your forehead.
5. Release the button and wait for the end of measurement signal.
6. After the signal, the thermometer can be removed from the temple and the measurement results can be viewed.
7. The entire measurement cycle, including preparing the thermometer, will take you a few seconds.

• armpit 36.3 - 36.9 0 C;
• on the forehead 36.3 - 36.9 0 C;
• in the mouth 36.8 - 37.3 0 C;
• rectal 37.3 - 37.7 0 C;
• in the ear 37.3 - 37.7 0 C.

When planning to buy things for the birth of a baby, every expectant mother chooses a thermometer, because it must certainly be present in every home where a small child lives. Among the variety of modern thermometers, the attention of many parents is attracted by the infrared thermometer. What is its feature, how to measure temperature with such a device, and what infrared thermometer should you buy for a child?

Species

There are the following options for infrared thermometers on sale:

1. Ear. It measures the temperature in the baby's external ear canal. Many of these thermometers are also capable of measuring temperature at the temple where the temporal artery passes.
2. Frontal. This type of thermometer measures the radiation on the skin of the baby's forehead.
3. Contactless. Such a device determines the temperature at a certain distance from the skin.

There is also a laser infrared thermometer, the main feature of which is the presence of a laser pointer aimed at the location where the temperature is determined.

Operating principle

The work of all infrared thermometers is to measure the infrared radiation emanating from a certain surface, be it the body of a child, water, or the surface of an object. The sensitive element of the thermometer detects the radiation and shows the result on the device display.

A non-contact medical infrared thermometer measures temperature without touching the child's body. This device is also called a pyrometer. Its operation is based on determining the power of thermal radiation from the measured object. In this case, the device takes into account mainly infrared rays. The device transforms the received data into degrees, displaying the result on the display.

Pros

• Ease of use. After reading the instructions for the device, any mother will quickly understand how the measurement is performed.
• Contactless. Many infrared thermometers are capable of measuring body temperature without touching it. This is very convenient if it is important to find out the temperature of a sleeping baby without disturbing his sleep.
• Quick results. It only takes a few seconds to measure.
• The ability to measure temperature on any area of ​​the skin. This advantage is important for parents of very tiny toddlers who protest against standard places for determining body temperature.
• Safety for children. There is no glass or mercury in the infrared thermometer, so the baby cannot be injured by it or poisoned by its contents.
• Compact sizes. The device is convenient to take with you on a trip and store at home.
• The ability to determine the temperature of air, water, mixture and any surfaces that are sources of heat. To do this, you just need to select the appropriate mode.
• The device often contains additional functions, for example, remembering the last temperature reading, battery charge indication, automatic shutdown, sound signal, screen backlight and others.
• The device is often packaged in a convenient case and runs on batteries.

Cons

• Forehead and ear types of infrared thermometers should only be used in the areas for which they are intended.
• The results determined by an infrared thermometer have errors of 0.1-1 degrees. For more accurate measurements, the device should be adjusted using a conventional mercury thermometer. In addition, it is recommended to take measurements at the same location.
• You will need to wait a bit before taking your temperature again. If you recheck the result before turning off the thermometer, the data will be incorrect.
• During the measurement, the child should not move, as any movement will affect the results. This also makes the measurement inaccurate if the baby cries.
• The measurement results will be incorrect if there is a temperature difference, for example, if the child has just been bathed or undressed after a walk. You should wait 30 minutes before using the thermometer.
• Some ear thermometers are not suitable for determining the temperature of babies under one year old due to the large tip that does not fit in the baby's tiny ear.
• An ear thermometer for otitis will show the wrong temperature.
• There is a risk of injury to the child's ear when using an ear thermometer.
• You need to purchase additional disposable pads for the ear thermometer.
• The cost of thermometers of this type is quite high.

How many seconds does it take to get results?

Data measuring a child's body temperature from an infrared thermometer is obtained in 1-5 seconds. In some models, determining the temperature takes a little longer - up to 30 seconds.

Instructions for use

It is important that the thermometer is in the room where the temperature is measured for at least 15-30 minutes before the measurement. If the baby's body temperature is measured, the child must remain in the room for at least 10 minutes.

The product is used as follows:

1. Turn on the device by pressing the button.
2. Select the desired operating mode.
3. To measure the temperature in the ear, remove the cap from the device, insert the thermometer sensor into the ear canal, press the measurement button once and wait for a sound signal. After removing the sensor from the ear, look at the screen where the temperature is displayed.
4. To measure the temperature on the temple, apply the thermometer sensor to the child’s temple, press the measurement button once, and then smoothly move the thermometer in a circle in the temporal region or slowly move it towards the forehead. After the signal, the result displayed on the screen is evaluated.
5. To measure temperature in a non-contact manner, bring the thermometer to the body at a distance of 4-6 cm from its surface (most often to the child’s forehead) or at another distance according to the instructions for the device. By pressing the measurement button, wait for the sound signal and evaluate the result on the display.
6. Turn off the thermometer.
7. If you wish to re-measure, wait 1 minute.
8. After use, wipe the device sensor.

Rating

The most popular models of infrared thermometers are:

• WELL WF-1000- a device that measures the temperature in the ear canal, as well as at the temples. The measurement result appears in 2-3 seconds. To change the mode you need to remove or put on the cap. The device remembers the last measurement. In addition to body temperature, such a thermometer can measure the temperature of liquid without immersion in it and air temperature.

• Sensitec NF 3101- a device that, without contact with the skin, measures the temperature in the temple area or on the forehead at a distance of 5-15 cm from their surface. The device can also determine the temperature of liquids, air and various surfaces. The device remembers 32 measurements and automatically saves the data. The thermometer, together with two batteries, weighs only 200 grams, and this device measures temperature in one second.

• MEDISANA FTN- a popular infrared thermometer that measures temperature in 2 seconds 5 cm from the child’s forehead. Attracts attention with a comfortable ergonomic shape. The device can remember 30 measurements, emits a warning signal when a fever is detected, and can also measure the temperature of liquids, objects and air.

• Testo 830-T2– a thermometer equipped with a two-point laser pointer. The device is capable of measuring temperatures in the range from -50ºС to +50ºС with an error of no more than 0.5ºС and weighs only 200 grams. The measurement result appears on the display within one second.

• LAICA SA5900– a non-contact thermometer with a large LCD display that measures temperature from a distance of 3-5 cm from the temple area. At the end of the measurement, the device beeps and turns off automatically. The device's memory stores the last 32 measurements.

• Omron Gentle Temp 510– an ear thermometer that can instantly measure the temperature in 1 second or take a measurement within 10 seconds of an infant to exclude incorrect placement in the child’s ear. The thermometer is easy to control with one button. The device comes with 10 replacement caps and a storage case.

• Garin IT-1– an infrared thermometer for determining body or room temperature in degrees Celsius or Fahrenheit. This non-contact thermometer with a convenient handle remembers the last measurement, gives the result in 2 seconds, notifies you about the end of the measurement with a sound, and also signals when your body temperature is elevated.

• Thermal Duo Scan– a high-precision thermometer with an ergonomic design that allows you to measure the temperature on the forehead in 3 seconds and in the ear canal in 1 second. The device emits a long signal at the end of the measurement, remembers the last result, automatically turns off after a minute and is controlled by just two buttons.

Which one is better to choose?

The range of infrared thermometers is quite extensive, so when choosing a suitable device you should consider:

• Child's age. For newborns, a non-contact thermometer is considered the best choice, and for children older than one year, you can purchase both an ear and a forehead thermometer.
• Manufacturing company. It is better to prefer companies that have been producing similar devices for a long time. Having purchased a low-quality device from a little-known company, you may receive incorrect data when using it (the error will exceed 1 degree).
• Purchasing budget. In the price range of infrared thermometers, it is worth choosing a model that will not hit the family budget. At the same time, you need to understand that cheap thermometers may turn out to be devices low quality, incorrectly displaying body temperature and quickly failing.
• Availability of guarantee. It is best to buy a thermometer in a specialized store or pharmacy, checking whether it is available warranty service. You should also definitely check when purchasing whether the device works.

It is also important to pay attention to the reviews of mothers who have been successfully using infrared thermometers for a long time. You can also get advice regarding best model with your doctor.