Abstract: An electronic thermometer includes a temperature sensitive element and a programmable microcomputer coupled to receive temperature data from the element. After processing the data in accordance with a control program, a predicted temperature is provided on a display. The program includes instructions causing a microcomputer to store temperature data at selected intervals during a fixed duration sampling period. A computation algorithm is then selected from a high ambient temperature algorithm, a normal ambient temperature algorithm, and a low ambient temperature algorithm, and the body temperature computed using one of the selected algorithms. The thermometer also displays operator error if the temperature sensing element senses a decrease in temperature during the fixed duration sampling period.

Abstract: An electronic thermometer includes a color coded probe permanently fastened by an electrical cable to a color coded isolation chamber to prevent inadvertent use of a rectal probe with an oral isolation chamber. Red and blue isolation chambers used for oral and rectal temperatures, respectively, can readily be used with one thermometer housing. A connector between the isolation chamber and the housing automatically connects and disconnects the probe and the thermometer circuits when the isolation chamber is inserted into or removed from the housing. Moreover, insertion of the probe into the isolation chamber automatically actuates a switch in the electronic thermometer housing to deactivate the electric circuits. Withdrawal of the probe from the chamber automatically supplies power to the thermometer circuits to ready the thermometer for operation.

Abstract: An electronic thermometer probe and cover assembly includes a probe extending from a handle and having limited axial movement into the handle against a resilient force. An elongated cover having open and closed ends fits over the probe. Cooperating elements on the open end of the cover and the handle snap together when the probe is moved into the handle by the cover to retain the cover in position with intimate contact between the probe end and cover. Actuation of a thumb button on the handle increases the force urging the probe out of the handle to unsnap the cover from the probe handle.