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Definition

A thermometer is a device used to measure temperature.

Purpose

A thermometer is used in health care to measure and monitor body temperature. In an office, hospital or other health care facility, it allows a caregiver to record a baseline temperature when a patient is admitted. Repeated measurements of temperature are useful to detect deviations from normal levels. Repeated measurements are also useful in monitoring the effectiveness of current medications or other treatments.

The patient's temperature is recorded to check for pyrexia or monitor the degree of hypothermia present in the body.

Demographics

All health care professionals use thermometers. All health care facilities have...