To read a forehead thermometer correctly, aim it at the center of the forehead, press the button, and wait for the beep before checking the displayed temperature.
Forehead thermometers offer a quick, non-invasive way to check body temperature, but improper use can lead to inaccurate readings. This guide covers best practices for precise measurements and common mistakes to avoid.
Forehead Thermometer Accuracy: What You Need to Know
While convenient, forehead thermometers can be less accurate than oral or rectal thermometers. A 2020 study found they often return lower readings than other methods. Environmental factors like drafts, sunlight, or radiant heat sources can affect results.
Key accuracy considerations:
- Remove headwear and wipe sweat before measuring
- Avoid taking readings in direct sunlight or near heat sources
- Wait 30 minutes if moving between extreme temperatures
How Forehead Thermometers Work
These devices use infrared sensors to detect heat emitted by the temporal artery. The thermometer focuses this radiation onto a thermopile that converts it to an electrical signal, displayed as a temperature reading.
Step-by-Step Guide to Proper Use
1. Preparation
- Clean the lens with alcohol wipes
- Let thermometer adjust to room temperature for 30 minutes
- Remove hats or head coverings
2. Positioning
Place the probe 1-3 cm from the center of the forehead, just above the eyebrows. For temporal artery models like the Exergen TAT-2000, maintain contact with skin.
3. Scanning Technique
- Press and hold the measurement button
- Slide straight across forehead to hairline
- Touch behind the ear if using temporal artery method
- Release button and read result
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Solution |
|---|---|
| Skipping instructions | Always review manufacturer guidelines |
| Dirty lens | Clean with alcohol before each use |
| Improper positioning | Maintain correct distance (1-3 cm) |
| Environmental factors | Avoid drafts and direct sunlight |
When to Use Alternative Methods
For medical-grade accuracy, consider:
- Oral thermometers: Provide more reliable readings for adults
- Tympanic (ear) thermometers: Better for detecting fever in children
- Rectal thermometers: Most accurate for infants
According to Medical News Today, ear thermometers are significantly more likely to detect fever than forehead models in clinical settings.
Maintenance and Care
Proper care extends your thermometer’s lifespan:
- Store in protective case when not in use
- Replace batteries regularly
- Avoid extreme temperatures
- Clean with mild disinfectant
For more on maintaining temperature-sensitive devices, see our guide to water heater thermostat control.
Special Considerations for Children
When using forehead thermometers with children:
- Take multiple readings for consistency
- Use while child is calm (crying can affect results)
- Consider temporal artery models for active children
The Exergen Temporal Scanner is particularly effective for pediatric use, scanning 1,000 times per second for accurate readings.
