The winner is:
#225 Debbie B.
In the past, our thermometer of choice for our kids and ourselves has been one of those ear thermometers. While we still were not completely comfortable with the ear thermometer, neither my husband or I were every comfortable taking our kids temps any other way.
The ear thermometer that we have would often give strange readings – very low readings and we would have to take their temperature again, shifting the thermometer and trying to align it just right. Both kids would protest and even now at almost 18 months old, Abby’s ears are kind of small to get an accurate reading, not to mention the time she had an ear infection and we tried to take it. It was frustrating in a number of ways but mostly because we never felt we could fully trust the readings.
I recently had the opportunity to try a new type of thermometer, a temporal artery thermometer by a company called Exergen.
The TemporalScanner Thermometer is a totally non-invasive system with advanced infrared technology providing maximum ease of use with quick, consistently accurate measurements. Advanced, patented technology measures temperatures with a gentle stroke across the forehead.
The TemporalScanner Thermometer has been clinically tested for accuracy compared to rectal thermometers and temperature sensors inserted in the heart during course of patient treatment and accepted for use in major hospitals, making it the ideal thermometer for use with newborns, infants, children or adults.
What’s in the package?
You get the thermometer, a 9-volt battery, the protective cap, a users manual and a quick-start guide.
Why use a temporal artery thermometer?
A study by the Harvard Medical School has proven that the TemporalScanner is more accurate than ear thermometers because the arterial temperature is the same as the blood flowing from the heart. It is the best, most accurate determinant of body temperature. It is very close to rectal temperature compared to other methods (ear and underarm) and has the added benefit of changing faster than a rectal temperature as the body’s temperature changes. The temporal artery temperature is also safer, more convenient and a more comfortable place to measure temperature, especially when dealing with a sick child.
How does it work?
The temporal artery in the head is connected directly to the heart via the cartoid artery. It has a constant blood flow and when you slide the sensor in the thermometer over the forehead it captures the heat that is naturally emitted from the skin over the temporal artery. The thermometer takes 1,000 readings per second and then selects the most accurate.
How do you use it?
Using the Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer is so easy that you will be amazed. You simply remove the protective cap (which blends in with it so make sure you don’t forget to take it off prior to using it) and then place the probe flat/flush on the center of the forehead. Press and hold the button down (if you are used to an ear thermometer where you press and release quickly you need to hold this one down) and slide the thermometer lightly either left or right across the forehead to the hairline. Make sure you keep the sensor flat against the skin for the entire time. You will hear beeping and the red light will flash during the scan. Once you reach the hairline, release the button, remove the thermometer and turn it around for the reading on the display. The entire process should take about two seconds.
The thermometer will turn itself off after 30 seconds or you can quickly press the scan button and it will turn off. Then replace the cap to protect the sensor.
Below is a quick video I did to show you how easy it is to use – it is however, not so easy to use it while trying to hold a camera steady…(good luck trying not to laugh at my alien-headed kid, especially at the end) – the video seems to run in slow motion on my computer:
When I wasn’t trying to hold the camera, I was getting 98.5 degrees on one side of his head and 98.4 degrees on the other. I think in holding the camera I lifted the sensor off his head at the end so it skewed the reading.
Where can you buy one?
The Exergen TemporalScanner Temporal Artery Thermometer is available at many major retailers nationwide including Wal-Mart, Walgreens, Costco, Babies R Us, Toys R Us and Sam’s Club. It is also available at Amazon.com. The prices vary slightly, but it is around $30-$35 on average.
What’s the bottom line?
I really think that no parent should be without this thermometer. It is accurate and easy to use and will likely be my gift of choice for baby showers from now on. It is used by hospitals, recommended by physicians, does not require probe covers and can be used on anyone, from infant to adult. What’s not to like?
One of you lucky ducks is going to find out for yourselves how great this thermometer is because I also have a giveaway!
How to enter:
To enter, visit Exergen and take a closer look at the TemporalScanner. Then come back here and leave a comment telling us why this thermometer is a must-have for your family.
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This Review/Giveaway opportunity was made possible by:
About Kim
this would be great for my son because of where you use it and how accurate it is. thanks if i win and may God bless you.
It is a must have for us because it is more accurate than others.