Clinical thermometers can be inserted into the mouth, ear, anus, or armpit, depending on the design. Some are also designed to attach to the forehead. Given the fact that clinical thermometers are inserted into rather intimate locations, sterilization is important. Another important issue is calibration, as it is important to get an accurate reading when a few degrees can make a big difference. Clinical thermometers must also be easy to use and read to ensure that people are likely to get proper readings.

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Some companies get around the sterilization issue with single use clinical thermometer designs. In this case, the thermometer is designed to be used on one patient and then discarded. Other companies design thermometers which can be thoroughly wiped down, and which are intended to be used with probe covers. Probe covers are disposable plastic covers which slip over the part of the thermometer being inserted, reducing the risk that microorganisms will be passed between patients.

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A clinical thermometer is carefully calibrated at the time of manufacture. Some come with calibration guides which people can use to recalibrate in their own practices, while in others cases, the thermometer can be sent back to the manufacturer for calibration. For cheaper thermometers, it can make more sense to confirm that the thermometer is not reading properly and simply discard it, rather than spending time recalibrating it. In these cases, it is more cost effective to buy a new clinical thermometer.

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