Braun IRT4520 ThermoScan Infrared Thermometer

After trying to use an under arm thermometer on my little man several times during illnesses I soon came to the conclusion that these were just not accurate enough, took too long to read the temperature and because of this it was difficult to keep a young child still enough.

Working for a nursery chain I knew that the Braun Ear Thermometer was our favoured brand so I did not hesistate in purchasing one myself, even though it cost me £40 at the time (i believe you can now buy this if you shop around for between £30-£40).

** About Braun **

Braun was a german company established in 1921 by a mechanical engineer called Max Braun.

The company is currently a subsidiary of Procter & Gamble and manufacturers a variety of small electronic products including Shaving and Grooming items, Beauty & Oral Care (known under the brand name Oral B), Heath products (such as Blood pressure monitors and thermometers), small kitchen appliances and irons.

** The Thermometer **

The digital ear thermometer takes your core body temperature by measuring within your ear. Ear Piece protection covers are supplied to protect the working parts and to ensure good hygiene when in use.

It is crafted in Blue and white plastic feels very well made . The digital screen and the on button are on the underneath of the thermometer and the button to start the scan is on the top with an exact temp light panel.

It can provide the temperature results in °C and °F and the part that goes into your ear has a soft tip that gently warms for accuracy. The design of the thermometer means that you cannot push the tip too far into your ear and is perfect for use on young babies, children and adults alike.

The thermometer comes with its own stand, some replacement protective covers and an helpful instruction booklet (which also provides information on which temperatures are normal and which are feverish for different age groups). To ensure accurate measurements you should always follow the instructions supplied.

** How To Use **

The thermometer itself is very easy to use. You turn on the unit, place into the ear then press a button and wait for the beep. Whilst the thermometer is scanning the "exact temp" light on the top flashes and once the scanning is complete the green light stops flashing and remains on and the unit beeps.

Within a couple of seconds the process is over and the temperature is clearly shown on the panel on the belly of the thermometer.

When you switch on the thermometer it shows you the last temperature recorded on for easy comparison.

After purchasing this I have been far more confident in the accuracy of the temperatures I have taken and my young son much prefers a few seconds with this in his ear than having a digital thermometer stuck under his arm for an age.

** My Opinion **

This is an excellent and reliable thermometer and is also used by both my GP and my childs nursery which is a testament to its quality and reliability.

I have been using this for over a year now and have always been satisfied that the readings are accurate. It is also worth noting that I have not yet had to change the batteries although it does not receive a large amount of regular use.

The stand provided keeps all of the parts together safe and sound, as the protective covers fit within the stand and also helps keep little prying hands away from the thermometer as when placed on the stand the on button cannot be pressed.

The thermometer is alot easier to use with young children as they only need to sit still for a couple of seconds whereas under arm thermometers take some time to measure the temperature. It is also more comfortable to use and therefore my Son is far happier to go through the process.

The heating of the tip is also a good feature making temperature taking more comfortable if you are already hot (there is nothing worst than a cold metal tip against burning up skin!).

The only draw backs with this product are the initial cost of the unit and also refills of the ear piece covers which are quite expensive, costing around £8 for 40 covers. These are readily available though so that buying the replacement parts is not difficult.

** In Conclusion **

If you have children and want to be sure just how hot they are when ill I would highly recommend this. It is very accurate, easy to use and has often helped put this worried mothers mind at ease. Although it is quite expensive I believe it is a worthy investment.