How to use Tempa-Dot thermometers

The 3M Company manufactures Tempa-Dot single-use thermometers. The individually wrapped, sterile thermometers measure body oral or axillary temperatures. They are available in either the Fahrenheit or Celsius scale, but one thermometer won't provide readings on both scales, so you'll have to decide which unit you prefer when you buy the thermometers. Coloured dots indicate body temperature based on the dot's chemical make-up. Read an oral temperature within one minute, or axillary temperature within three minutes, with the aid of 3M's Tempa-Dot thermometer.

Unwrap the Tempa-Dot thermometer. Place its tapered end under your tongue for an oral reading. Close your mouth for one minute. Lay it against the bare skin of your torso, parallel to your body, and cover it with your hand for three minutes for an axillary reading.

Examine the coloured dot portion of the thermometer after the recommended time has passed, giving the device 10 seconds to lock in the temperature, and determine the measured temperature. On a Fahrenheit thermometer, the whole degree number is located along the left side of the dots, with 0.2-degree decimal increments along the top. On a Celsius thermometer, the whole- and half-degree measurements are both along the left side. On either thermometer, look at the last dot that appears and take the reading in alignment with it for the accurate temperature.

Discard the Tempa-Dot thermometer. It is intended for one use only.