Comparison of disposable and glass mercury thermometers.

The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of disposable thermometer recordings with those from a mercury thermometer. The disposable thermometer has heat-sensitive clinical dots that change colour to indicate temperature measurement. The trial provided fascinating information, questioning current nursing practice and the safety of the tools we use. We need to challenge when and with what we record patients' temperatures. The results from the trial suggested that not only did the disposable thermometer record quicker than the mercury thermometer but that it was as accurate and cheaper.