Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
128 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Is Broken Thermometer Toxic For A Child?

I found a broken glass thermometer in my home. My son who is 2 yrs. 4 mo. was sick last week and I left it on the nightstand. Today I found it with no tip and no mercury. So it could have broke today are or within the last couple of days. He says he did not bite it but I am worried. Are the amounts in a glass thermometer toxic?
posted on Thu, 13 Mar 2014
Twitter Wed, 4 Nov 2020 Answered on
Twitter Sat, 7 Nov 2020 Last reviewed on
Report Abuse
Pediatrician,  's  Response
Hi,

As a starting statement, I would recommend you to go for electronic or in ear thermometers for future usage. So, you need to check whats written on the box of thermometer, there are thermometers which come with non mercury liquids too. If the box is available you can check it out there or you can check with the manufacturer.

Secondly, it would be a good option for you to take your child to the clinician who can then examine physically any signs of intoxication and decide accordingly for the subsequent plan. As far as you are saying that the child is absolutely stable, so that’s a good thing, but I still feel it would be better to show to a doctor physically.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Gaurav Nigam, Pediatrician
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Loading Online Doctors....
Is Broken Thermometer Toxic For A Child?

Hi, As a starting statement, I would recommend you to go for electronic or in ear thermometers for future usage. So, you need to check whats written on the box of thermometer, there are thermometers which come with non mercury liquids too. If the box is available you can check it out there or you can check with the manufacturer. Secondly, it would be a good option for you to take your child to the clinician who can then examine physically any signs of intoxication and decide accordingly for the subsequent plan. As far as you are saying that the child is absolutely stable, so that’s a good thing, but I still feel it would be better to show to a doctor physically. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Gaurav Nigam, Pediatrician