Temporal artery thermometers

Remote forehead thermometers use an infrared scanner to measure the temperature of the temporal artery in the forehead.

The pros:

• A remote temporal artery thermometer can record a person's temperature quickly and are easily tolerated.
• Remote temporal artery thermometers are appropriate for children of any age.

The cons:

• A temporal artery thermometer may be more expensive than other types of thermometers.
• This type of thermometer may be less accurate than other types. Direct sunlight, cold temperatures or a sweaty forehead can affect temperature readings. Variations on user technique, such as holding the scanner too far away from the forehead, also may affect accuracy.