Ear thermometer accuracy

shellybell15

I have noticed that my ear thermometer will give me two different readings if I take DS's temp in both ears. Tonight one ear gave me a 99.8 temp while the other was 100.8. Is this common or do I have a crappy thermometer?

A*Bride

I never got a good reading from our ear thermometer. I threw it out and went for the good ole' pooper thermometer.

Lizard2022

Yes they are very inaccurate.  I always just use the rectal thermometer.  DS doesn't care, I know it is accurate and if he's sick the dr always wants rectal anyways.

Shayna0182

We have a the Target brand ear thermometer, and it seems pretty on trach with the temperature readings from the pedi.  I do find though, that you have to make sure it's in the right spot in the ear, otherwise the reading will be a little off.  We're pretty happy with it, and it was only $20.00.

Pecas13

The directions actually say temps can vary ear to ear.  The thermometers take a bunch of readings and then give you an average.  They say until you feel you are confident in your abilities to get an accurate reading, to do a couple and always from the same ear. Also, if the baby is awake vs. sleeping can vary the temp, too.

Amber5103

We have the Braun ear thermometer and I love it.  I have tested to make sure it is accurate with a rectal temp and ear temp.  Like pp said you have to make sure it is in the right spot.  I sit DD on my lap facing away from me and place my hand on her forehead to hold her still and have the thermometer at a slight angle to ensure the tip is reading from her ear canal.

Clotho!

yes it can vary from ear to ear and like pp said you must have it in the right spot. Our pedi asked us not to use one b/c 99% of the time it will not be in the right spot. I find i get better readings taking their temps under their arms anyway and that's the way the pedi does it in office.