As a single type of thermometer cannot be utilized for every patient, different kinds of devices are designed to provide options for all age groups. Among these, three major temperature measuring systems include ear, rectal, and oral thermometers all of which vary in their sizes, and shapes, as well as pros and cons.
Let us compare the distinct features of ear, rectal, and oral thermometers and understand how they differ.
1. Shape of the Bulb
The tip or bulb of a thermometer is the part that touches the patient’s body cavity when a temperature measurement is taken. For different body cavities, different bulb shapes are required.
· Ear thermometers have a cone-shaped bulb. It has to be covered with a disposable probe cover before use. As ear thermometers are technically non-invasive, their bigger bulb shape does not disturb the patient in any way.
· The bulb of the rectal thermometers is shorter in size and round in shape compared to oral thermometers. This is because the rectal tissue is delicate and a larger bulb of a thermometer tends to easily rip it. Therefore, a rectal thermometer with a rounder bulb is less risky to use as the chances of tissue puncturing and tearing are minor.
· The tip of the oral thermometers is longer and thinner as compared to other types of thermometers. This shape is particularly helpful in giving the right exposure to the mercury present in the thermometer. As a result, body temperature is measured accurately.
2. Color Coding for Identification
For identification, the stem end of each type of glass thermometer is color-coded with a different color. This way, the use of one kind of thermometer in place of the other can be prevented. For example, if a rectal thermometer is used in the mouth, the transfer of fecal germs to the oral cavity can result in severe infections.
· Ear thermometers are not color-coded as they prominently differ in shape from other thermometers.
· The color of the rectal thermometers is usually red.
· Oral thermometers have blue color coding.
3. Temperature Indicator
With the change of thermometer, certain variations in the normal body temperature readings can be noticed. Therefore, the temperature indicator of a thermometer shows the normal body temperature according to the type of thermometer being used.
· For ear or tympanic thermometers, the temperature indicator value is 99.5°F.
· An anal or rectal thermometer has a temperature indicator of about 99.6°F.
· For oral thermometers, the temperature indicator is 98.6°F.
4. Variations in Body Temperature Measurement
Body temperature, when measured with different thermometers, gives a slightly different value. To ease the complication, temperatures measured using oral thermometers are considered standard. However, when using a rectal or ear thermometer, it is good to know how much variation is expected.
| Route of Taking Body Temperature | Expected Variation from the Oral Readings |
| Rectal/Anal | 0.5 to 1°F (0.3 to 0.6°C) greater than oral temperature |
| Ear/Tympanic | 0.5 to 1°F (0.3 to 0.6°C) greater than oral temperature |
| Axillary/Armpit | 0.5 to 1°F (0.3 to 0.6°C) less than oral temperature |
| Forehead/Temporal | 0.5 to 1°F (0.3 to 0.6°C) less than oral temperature |
Comparison of Ear, Rectal, and Oral Thermometers
The rectal, ear and oral thermometers differ on many grounds. From construction to utilization, many distinct features make these three stand out from one another. The following table enlists the differences between rectal, ear, and oral thermometers:
| Features | Thermometers | ||
| Rectal | Ear | Oral | |
| Bulb size | Shorter and rounder | Large, used with a disposable cover | Longer and thinner |
| Tip shape | Pear-shaped or stubby | Cone-shaped | Pear-shaped, stubby, or elongated |
| Color-code | Red | – | Blue |
| Temperature indicator | 99.6°F | 99.5°F | 98.6°F |
| Reading time | 30 seconds | 2 seconds | 40 seconds |
| Suitability for age groups | 3 years or younger | Suitable for all age groups | 3 years or older |
| Invasiveness | Invasive | Non-invasive | Invasive |
| Hygienity | Low | High | Moderate |
| Can be used orally | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Can be used for axillary | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Can be used rectally | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Reading is interfered with by eating and drinking | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Associated risk of infection | ✔ | ✘ | Rare |
Pros and Cons of Ear, Rectal, and Oral Thermometers
Despite being used for the same purpose, the ear, rectal, as well as oral thermometers have different advantages and disadvantages. The following table compares the pros and cons of each one of these:
| Rectal Thermometers | Ear Thermometers | Oral Thermometers | |
| Pros | Easy to useReliable resultsLightweight and portableIdeal for infants and children below 3 years of age | Easy to useReadings are accurateShorter reading timeSuitable for all age groupsPortable | Easy to operateConvenient to useIdeal for use in adultsLightweightPortable |
| Cons | Not suitable for adultsThe bulb needs to be lubricated before useThe bulb should be disinfected after every use | Improper use can damage the ear canalThe presence of earwax can interfere with the readings | Not suitable for children below 3 years of ageEating and drinking 15 minutes before using the thermometer interferes with the reading |
Different Types of Thermometers at Health Supply 770: Products and Specifications
When it comes to thermometers, the markets are filled with many different options. These include ear thermometers, infrared thermometers , rectal thermometers, glass thermometers, oral thermometers, as well as digital thermometers among others.
All these devices have their own merits and demerits but they do provide a choice to the users based on their preference. Some of these thermometers available at Health Supply 770 have been enlisted as follows along with their prices and purchase links:
Oral Thermometers
08-300 Veridian Digital Oral Thermometers
Price: $5.88
Product Details
08-300 Veridian digital oral thermometers HK-901 are one of the fast and accurate thermometers used in professional healthcare settings for taking oral temperature measurements. The time required to measure and display a reading is only 60 seconds.
When it comes to storing the temperature readings, the device can store up to 25 values. The device also shuts down when it is not used for 10 minutes. In addition, if you have a fever, the device can also give a fever alert in the form of a display and a beep.
The device has a one-button operation which makes it easy to use and operate for everyone. The Veridian oral thermometer is also lightweight and portable. These thermometers are waterproof so can be easily cleaned.
HK-901 Digital Thermometer
Price: $7.88
Product Details
HK-901 Digital thermometer is a device that measures your body temperature and provides you with accurate results. This digital thermometer is simple to use and can give results within 10 seconds. Its accuracy is up to ± 0.2°F or ± 0.1°C. Moreover, the device can also store the last reading you checked so that you can access that later.
Its auto shut-off feature is excellent for saving battery. As this thermometer is free from harmful mercury-based design unlike glass thermometers, it is extremely safe to use as well as hygienic. If the product detects high than normal internal temperature readings, it sets off an alarm to alert the user.
KMP Digital Stick Thermometer 413EKM-00
Price: $47.64
Product Details
KMP Digital stick thermometer 413EKM-00 can measure temperature in both Celsius as well as Fahrenheit units. The device can detect and set off an alarm when it has taken the temperature reading. The reading time is within 60 seconds. Furthermore, the KMP digital stick thermometer is water-resistant and long-lasting.
Rectal Thermometers
Welch Allyn 02892-100 Temperature Probe SureTemp® 9 Foot Rectal
Price: $104.87
Product Details
Welch Allyn 02892-100 temperature probe SureTemp® is a 9-foot-long probe that is employed while using a thermometer for taking temperatures from the rectum. The probe comes with a plastic cover to keep the tip protected. The product is disposable and can only be used once for a single patient. The device is compatible with all SureTemp thermometers. Moreover, being latex-free, the Welch Allyn 02892-100 temperature probe SureTemp® does not cause any allergic reaction.
Ear Thermometers
06000-200 Thermoscan Pro 6000 Ear Thermometer
Price: $191.45
Product Details
06000-200 Thermoscan Pro 6000 ear thermometer employs the PerfecTemp technology and gives a reading within 1 second. Its hygienic probe cover keeps the tip clean and hygienic for multiple uses. The product has a digital display that is backlit to make it easy for you to read your temperature value.
The device also has a color-coded fever indicator. As the memory system is in place, the device can store up to 9 temperature readings. The charging spot is also conveniently designed to assist in recharging. Overall, the product is excellent for use in children, adults, as well as the elderly.
Welch Allyn Braun Theroscan Pro 6000 Ear Thermometer 06000-200
Price: $246.62
Product Details
Welch Allyn Braun Thermoscan Pro 6000 ear thermometer 06000-200 works on the PerfecTemp technology which enables it to adjust itself according to the ambient temperature. The placement of the probe is also self-adjusted so that accurate and reliable readings are delivered. The time the system takes to measure your temperature is merely 1 second. The system comes with a memory of up to 9 readings.
Its color-coded fever indicator displays certain colors to show if the temperature is normal or above normal. Due to its small size and lighter weight, the device is also portable and can be carried around easily. Its disposable cover enables the device to remain as clean as possible by protecting it against germs. Moreover, the convenient data storage system allows for easy tracking of the temperature readings.
3-in-1 Option
Welch Allyn SureTemp Plus 690 Electronic Thermometer 01690-300
Price: $365.27
Product Details
Welch Allyn SureTemp Plus 690 electronic thermometer 01690-300, like other types of thermometers, is an ideal product for oral, rectal, or axillary use. This feature makes the product suitable for patients belonging to all ages. The device takes the readings quickly within 4 to 6 seconds when used orally while for the rectal route, 10 to 13 seconds are required. However, for axillary readings, the device takes 12 to 15 seconds in adults and 10 to 13 seconds in pediatric patients.
The durability of the product is high so it lasts longer once purchased. As a power option, the product has 3 AAA batteries. Overall, this Welch Allyn SureTemp Plus electronic thermometer is suitable for use at home as well as in clinical settings.
Forehead Thermometers
Berrcom Digital Forehead Thermometers
Price: $14.99
Product Details
Berrcom non-contact digital forehead thermometers are easy to use and come with an easy-to-read back display. The device works in 6 modes and has replaceable AA batteries. Both silent as well as sound modes are available along with the dual functionality in two temperature scales.
A low battery indicator alerts the patients if the device needs recharging. Moreover, the product is best for use among pediatric patients starting from 3 months of age.
ZS-T1 Clinical Infrared Thermometer
Price: $29.88
Product Details
ZS-T1 Clinical infrared thermometer is a type of thermometer that can estimate your body temperature from your temporal artery without coming into physical contact with the skin by using infrared radiation. This feature renders the product safe as the chances of spreading of an infection are minimized.
The auto shut-off feature increases battery life. In case of a high body temperature, the device sets off an alert to let the user know. Also, the thermometer is easy to use due to its digital display and can be operated under low light.
The time required to measure temperature and display the reading is 1 second. Moreover, these non-contact infrared thermometers can store up to 32 temperature readings which can be accessed later. For long-term functionality, a thermometer should be stored away properly from direct sunlight.
*Note: The prices mentioned in the article are taken from the Health Supply 770 website. These may vary over time.
The ear, rectal, forehead, and oral thermometers mentioned in this article, along with many other medical supplies, can be purchased from Health Supply 770, a reliable name when it comes to medical products. They have a 30-day money-back guarantee and provide your products to you in the shortest possible time. Click the links given in the article to check the wide range of thermometers on the website.
Conclusion
Among different types of thermometers, the widely used options include ear, rectal, and oral thermometers. These are suitable for home use as well as for professional settings due to their easy operation. Moreover, results can also be obtained within a few seconds.
The children who are below the age of 3 months cannot take oral thermometers so it is safe to employ the rectal ones. However, for those above 6 months, era thermometers can also be used. As for those above the age of 3 years as well as adults, oral thermometers are preferable.
While buying different types of thermometers, reliable vendors like Health Supply 770 should be approached as they not only ensure the provision of quality products but also offer satisfactory services.
PhD Scholar (Pharmaceutics), MPhil (Pharmaceutics), Pharm D, B. Sc.
Uzma Zafar is a dedicated and highly motivated pharmaceutical professional currently pursuing her PhD in Pharmaceutics at the Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab. With a comprehensive academic and research background, Uzma has consistently excelled in her studies, securing first division throughout her educational journey.
Uzma’s passion for the pharmaceutical field is evident from her active engagement during her Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) program, where she not only mastered industrial techniques and clinical case studies but also delved into marketing strategies and management skills.
Throughout her career, Uzma has actively contributed to the pharmaceutical sciences, with specific research on suspension formulation and Hepatitis C risk factors and side effects. Additionally, Uzma has lent her expertise to review and fact-check articles for the Health Supply 770 blog, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the information presented.
As she continues her PhD, expected to complete in 2025, Uzma is eager to contribute further to the field by combining her deep knowledge of pharmaceutics with real-world applications to meet global professional standards and challenges.
