Description
Here’s a more detailed look:
Uses in Medical Settings:
Body Temperature Measurement:
Mercury thermometers were traditionally used to measure oral, rectal, or axillary (underarm) temperatures. They relied on the thermal expansion of mercury to indicate temperature changes.
Sphygmomanometers:
Mercury-containing blood pressure monitors (sphygmomanometers) use mercury to measure blood pressure. These devices are less prone to rupture than thermometers, and the mercury column rises or falls in response to air pressure introduced by the blood pressure cuff.
Esophageal Dilators:
In the past, mercury-containing esophageal dilators were also used in healthcare settings.
Why Mercury Thermometers are Being Phased Out:
Mercury Toxicity: Mercury is a heavy metal that is toxic to humans and the environment. Exposure to mercury vapors can cause nerve and kidney damage, and mercury can accumulate in the body.
Environmental Concerns: Mercury spills from broken thermometers can contaminate the environment.
Alternative Technologies: Digital thermometers and alcohol-based alternatives have become more common, providing accurate and safer options for measuring body temperature.