Temperature taking with glass thermometers: a review

This paper gives a review of the pertinent literature related to the use of clinical glass thermometers in body temperature recordings, historically and up to the present day. An attempt is made to give this commonly practised nursing procedure a scientific basis. Aspects of methods involved are discussed, particularly from the viewpoints of accuracy and safety. Some of the discrepancies inherent in current practice are pointed out and, where relevant, suggestions are made on the revision of this in the light of research findings and scientific data.