To use a digital thermometer correctly, follow these general steps based on the measurement method:

Oral Temperature Measurement

• Turn on the digital thermometer.
• Place the thermometer tip under your tongue.
• Close your mouth around the thermometer and breathe through your nose.
• Keep the thermometer in place until it beeps, indicating the reading is complete (usually under 1 minute).
• Remove the thermometer and read the temperature on the display.
• Clean the thermometer after use with soapy water or alcohol wipes

Rectal Temperature Measurement (most accurate for infants and young

children)

• Turn on the thermometer.
• Apply a small amount of lubricant to the tip.
• Gently insert the tip about 1.5 cm (half an inch) into the rectum.
• Hold the thermometer steady until it beeps.
• Remove and read the temperature.
• Thoroughly clean the thermometer before and after use

Axillary (Underarm) Temperature Measurement (less accurate)

• Turn on the thermometer.
• Place the tip in the armpit against the skin.
• Lower the arm over the thermometer to hold it in place.
• Wait for the beep, then keep it in place for an additional minute to ensure accuracy.
• Remove and read the temperature.
• Clean the thermometer after use

Additional Tips

• Avoid taking oral temperatures immediately after eating or drinking hot or cold beverages.
• Use separate thermometers for oral and rectal measurements to avoid contamination.
• Clean the thermometer before and after each use with cold soapy water or alcohol.
• For digital thermometers with unit settings, you can switch between Celsius and Fahrenheit by holding the on/off button for several seconds (varies by model)

Following these steps will help you get an accurate temperature reading using a digital thermometer.