What is the range of a clinical thermometer?

The correct answer is 35ºC to 42ºC.

Key Points

• The range of a clinical thermometer is typically 35ºC to 42ºC, designed to measure human body temperature accurately.
• Clinical thermometers are used for medical purposes to check body temperature during fever or illness.
• They are calibrated to measure temperature within the range suitable for humans, as normal body temperature is around 37ºC (98.6ºF).
• Clinical thermometers contain mercury or alcohol that expands with heat, providing precise readings.
• These thermometers often have a kink near the bulb that prevents mercury from falling back, allowing the user to read the temperature conveniently.

Additional Information

• Normal Body Temperature:
  • Normal body temperature for a healthy individual is approximately 37ºC (98.6ºF).
  • Temperatures below 35ºC or above 42ºC are considered abnormal and may require medical attention.
• Types of Thermometers:
  • Mercury Thermometer: Uses mercury and is highly accurate but requires careful handling.
  • Digital Thermometer: Uses electronic sensors to measure temperature and provides instant readings.
  • Infrared Thermometer: Measures temperature without contact, often used for forehead readings.
• Thermometer Scales:
  • Temperature can be measured in Celsius (ºC), Fahrenheit (ºF), or Kelvin (K).
  • Conversion formulas: ºF = (ºC × 9/5) + 32 and ºC = (ºF - 32) × 5/9.
• Clinical Thermometer Design:
  • Clinical thermometers are usually made of glass with a narrow bore and a bulb containing mercury or alcohol.
  • They include markings to indicate temperature readings between 35ºC to 42ºC.
• Safety Measures:
  • Handle mercury thermometers carefully to prevent breakage and exposure to toxic mercury.
  • Digital and infrared thermometers are safer and increasingly preferred in medical settings.