The process of taking a temperature is only half the task when monitoring health with a thermometer. Post-use care is equally important, ensuring the device remains accurate for future readings, prevents the transfer of germs between users, and prolongs the overall life of the instrument. Establishing a routine for recording, cleaning, storing, and eventually disposing of the thermometer is a necessary practice for household health and hygiene.
Recording and Interpreting the Reading
The immediate step following a measurement is to accurately capture the data before the thermometer is cleaned and stored. This record should include the numerical temperature reading, the exact time it was taken, and the method of measurement used, such as oral, rectal, or temporal. Knowing the measurement site is important because the definition of a fever can vary slightly depending on where the temperature was taken. An oral temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher is recognized as a fever in adults.
The recorded temperature reading dictates the subsequent action, especially concerning when to seek professional medical advice. For adults, a temperature reaching 103°F (39.4°C) or higher warrants a call to a healthcare provider. For infants under three months, a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or more should prompt immediate medical attention. Persistent fever lasting more than three days or the presence of symptoms like confusion or difficulty breathing are also signals to contact a doctor.
Essential Hygiene: Cleaning and Disinfection Protocols
After the temperature has been noted, thorough hygiene protocols must be followed to prevent cross-contamination and the spread of bacteria. Cleaning involves removing any visible debris, while disinfection is the subsequent step of actively killing germs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using rubbing alcohol with a concentration of at least 60% for effective disinfection, as it inactivates a broad spectrum of bacteria and viruses.
For digital thermometers, the entire probe and device body should be wiped down with a cotton pad or swab moistened with the alcohol solution. The device must be allowed to air-dry completely afterward. Air-drying is important because moisture can harbor bacterial growth, and drying with a towel risks reintroducing germs. Care must be taken to avoid submerging the electronic display or battery compartment in any liquid, as water can damage the internal components.
If rubbing alcohol is unavailable, a bleach wipe can be used, or the tip can be rinsed with lukewarm soapy water. Hot water should never be used, as it can damage the heat sensor within the thermometer. For infrared or temporal thermometers, the sensor and exterior should still be wiped with an alcohol-soaked pad to sanitize the surface. Even when using single-use probe covers, the main body of the device should still be routinely cleaned and disinfected.
Safe Storage and Device Maintenance
Once the thermometer is completely dry following disinfection, it must be stored correctly to ensure its longevity and accuracy. The ideal storage environment is a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight, excessive humidity, and extreme temperature fluctuations. Exposure to heat or cold can compromise the calibration and affect the electronic components of digital models.
Storing the thermometer in its original protective case is the best way to safeguard the probe or sensor tip from physical damage and dust accumulation. For liquid-in-glass thermometers, storage in an upright position helps prevent the liquid column from separating, which would render the device inaccurate. Regular maintenance involves visually inspecting the device for signs of wear, such as cracks in the casing or corrosion on battery terminals. If the thermometer uses batteries, inconsistent or slow readings signal that the power source is weakening and needs replacement to maintain accuracy.
Handling Disposal and Broken Thermometers
When a thermometer is damaged or reaches the end of its functional life, it requires specific handling due to the materials it contains. Digital thermometers are considered electronic waste (e-waste) because they contain electronic parts and batteries. Before disposing of the device, the battery should be removed and recycled separately, as batteries often contain hazardous materials. The remaining digital thermometer can then be dropped off at a local e-waste recycling center.
Disposal of older glass thermometers requires caution, particularly if they contain mercury. Mercury is a toxic substance, and mercury thermometers must never be thrown into the regular household garbage. If a mercury thermometer breaks, avoid using a vacuum cleaner, as this will spread the mercury vapor throughout the air. Local household hazardous waste programs or drop-off facilities are the proper channels for disposing of broken mercury thermometers and cleanup materials. Non-mercury liquid-filled glass thermometers, which typically use alcohol with a color dye, can generally be placed in the regular trash.