Do You Add a Degree to an Ear Thermometer?

About.com states that it is not necessary to add a degree to temperatures taken with ear or temporal thermometers. It’s recommended to take a temperature two or three times and average the results when using ear or temporal thermometers.

WebMD explains that ear, or tympanic, temperatures and rectal temperatures typically run 0.5 to 1 degree Fahrenheit higher than the oral temperature. Armpit, or axillary, temperatures and forehead, or temporal, temperatures are usually 0.5 to 1 degree lower than an oral temperature.

About.com suggests that rather than adding or subtracting degrees from a recorded temperature, it is best to report the actual thermometer reading to a doctor and tell him what type of thermometer was used.

World View

This Year We’re Skipping the Fireworks, and Other 4th of July Safety Tips

History

Why Was the Declaration of Independence Written?

History

58 Years Later: What Was the Civil Rights Act of 1964?

History

Facts About the Louisiana Purchase That Might Surprise You

History

Celebrating Disability Pride Month and the History of the ADA

History

Mythic Months: Why Is July Named After Julius Caesar?