SantaMedical Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer ~~REVIEW~~

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Nearly any parent, especially first time parents, knows how challenging it can be to take a child's temperature when they are sick.  That's why I really looked forward to the opportunity to try the SantaMedical Non-contact Infrared Thermometer for a discounted price in exchange for my honest review.  As a mother of 4, I actually got to the point where I lived without a thermometer and just started taking guesses, simply because I could never get my kids to cooperate when I wanted to take their temps.  After all, they felt like poo, the last thing they wanted to do was sit there for what seemed like forever with a cold glass instrument in their mouth, or something prodding their ear.  I have a couple friends preparing to have new babies, and thought something like this might be a perfect component of my gift basket for their baby showers.

This thermometer uses 2 AAA batteries, which are included.  Also included is a soft (suede?) storage pouch, providing a safe place for storage when the thermometer is not in use.  According to the included instructions, the device is pre-set at the factory and does not have a need to be calibrated.  While I did read some other reviews indicating they needed to calibrate their device, I found it provided a very accurate reading straight out of the box.  According to the instructions, there may be times when certain procedures may be necessary to acclimate the device, should the ambient temperature of an environment change significantly.  The instructions also indicate that the most reliable way to check the temperature is by aiming the device at the forehead, over the right temporal region, from a distance of about 3 to 5 cm.  At that point, operation is as simple as pressing a button and reading the instant result, which is digitally displayed on the screen.

What is your favorite method of taking your child's temperature?  Share your thoughts below.