Reviews Welch Allyn Suretemp Plus 690 Electronic Thermometer #01690-200

I am an ICU nurse and in that environment temp is incredibly important. This Welch Allyn Suretemp Plus is the thermometer brand used in the hospital (one of the top 10 in the nation) and they work quite well. The ones in the unit are the 692 model, but there are no additional features those add that anyone really uses except the wall mount. In fact, the 690 and 692 share the same manual.

Temps are taken on each patient 2-3 times per 12-hour shift, and more if there is any concern. We take temps via oral or axillary (armpit) routes. We never do rectal with these. I love this thermometer. Don't get me wrong, it is definitely an expensive purchase. However, the money was well spent. This Welch Allyn Suretemp Plus 690 Electronic Thermometer is the best thermometer I have used. It is common to see in use at medical offices. Quick and reliable.

I have used Welch Allyn Suretemp Plus 690 Electronic Thermometer #01690-200 day in and day out. These are very, very durable. They get dropped, rolled on, probe cords wrapped around things and stretched - they stand up to some ridiculous amounts of abuse.

My old Braun digital thermometer is getting replaced with this. Here are a few tips for temps if anyone cares to use them (based on my experience alone, NOT medical advice):

Welch Allyn Suretemp Plus 690 Electronic Thermometer #01690-200 Oral:

• get under tongue and use the same spot for further temp monitoring
• wait at least 10 mins after the person last ate or drank a beverage as this alters the temp
• wait at least 30 mins after a bath or exercise
• can be taken between top cheek and gum if under tongue is a problem - just stick with monitoring further temps from the same spot
• wait at least one minute before retaking temp from same spot

Welch Allyn Suretemp Plus 690 Electronic Thermometer #01690-200 Axillary (armpit):

• make sure probe tip is at the body's center line about 1/2" below the armpit
• have person bring arm down against his/her side so that the probe is sandwiched against them
• make sure probe tip is not sticking out behind person's arm

This Welch Allyn thermometer is accurate and considerable fast considering how long it takes to get rectal temps. So, for parents who have been having difficulty finding an accurate reading of your child's temperature, save yourself the stress and purchase something that will definitely match up to your standards.

People really get worried about temps but the biggest thing we watch is the trend... obviously the result matters if the temp is 107 (and action is taken), but under normal household conditions I believe the current guideline is monitor the temp trend and encourage fluids/rest so long as the temp stays at 101 or under.

Welch Allyn Suretemp Plus 690 Electronic Thermometer #01690-200 is expensive, but will save you money in the long run.