Parents of feverish babies will be glad to hear that they can abandon
uncomfortable rectal thermometers in favour of a “dummy thermometer” that
soothes sick children at the same time as taking an accurate temperature
reading. The device developed by Florida-based Stridden uses a standard
electronic thermometer surrounded by a removable silicone nipple. Paediatricians
have welcomed the thermometer, but parents are warned that it gives readings 0.3
°C lower than rectal temperatures, which remain the best indicator of
fever.
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