•  
  •  

Thermometer

Picture of thermometers

How to read a thermometer

Thermometers are calibrated in either degrees Fahrenheit (°F) or degrees Celsius (°C), depending on the custom of the region. Digital thermometers display the temperature on a small screen. Non-digital thermometers have a special mark, usually an arrow, showing a "normal" temperature of 98.6°F (37°C).

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics
Last Revised January 20, 2011

Last Revised: January 20, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics & Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.