Thermometers: Understand the options

Articles

Digital thermometers
Digital ear thermometers
Digital pacifier thermometers
Remote thermometers
Temporal artery thermometers
Tympanic thermometers
Content
Types of thermometers
Contact thermometers
Ear thermometers
Mercury thermometers
Contactless thermometers
Forehead thermometers
Thermometers by age

Remote ear thermometers, also called tympanic thermometers, use an infrared ray to measure the temperature inside the ear canal.

The pros:

When positioned properly, infrared ear thermometers are quick and generally comfortable for children and adults.
Infrared ear thermometers are appropriate for infants older than age 6 months, older children and adults.

The cons:

Infrared ear thermometers aren't recommended for newborns.
Earwax or a small, curved ear canal can interfere with the accuracy of a temperature taken with an infrared ear thermometer.