Pull the ear canal open by gently pulling the ear lobe back and up

Insert the tip of the thermometer into the ear canal, being careful not to push too far into the ear, and press the button. The reading will be immediate. electronic thermometer a clinical thermometer that uses a sensor based on thermistors, solidstate electronic devices whose electrical characteristics change with temperature. The reading is recorded within seconds, some having a red light or other device to indicate when maximum temperature is reached. Available models include handheld, desktop, and wallmounted units, all having probes that are inserted orally or rectally.