Are temporal artery thermometers accurate?
Matthew Wilson
Updated on March 31, 2026
Thereof, are temporal artery thermometers accurate for adults?
According to the Mayo Clinic, those with a “small, curved ear canal” will have inaccurate readings. Temporal thermometer readings average about the same as rectal and ear thermometer readings in some studies, but lower in others.
Furthermore, what is a normal temperature with a temporal thermometer? In 2004, the TAT was selected as the standard thermometer for adult inpatients at the MGH. At MGH, the TAT is set to ARTERIAL or CORE mode, so a normal temperature is 97.4 -100.1°F.
Beside above, can temporal thermometers be wrong?
The National Institute of Health research said that a forehead thermometer's readings can become inaccurate if the child's forehead is sweating or if the child is moving. These two variables can be rather difficult to control when it comes to children.
What is the most accurate thermometer for adults?
Rectal thermometers, which go into your rear end, are the most accurate, but they can be uncomfortable. Armpit, ear, and forehead thermometers aren't as accurate. Most doctors think an oral thermometer, which you hold under your tongue, is best.