Which instrument is commonly used to measure body temperature?

The instrument commonly used to measure body temperature is a thermometer. Thermometers are specifically designed to provide accurate readings of body temperature, whether orally, rectally, or under the arm, depending on the type and method of use. There are various types of thermometers, including digital, infrared, and glass, which cater to different needs and environments, making them the standard tool in both clinical and home settings for assessing fever or monitoring a patient’s temperature status.

In contrast, a sphygmomanometer is used to measure blood pressure, a stethoscope is used to listen to internal sounds of a body, typically the heart and lungs, and a pulse oximeter measures oxygen saturation in the blood. Each of these instruments serves a distinct purpose in patient care, highlighting the specificity of the thermometer in measuring body temperature.