Celsius vs. Fahrenheit: Clinical Thermometer Temperature Readings

Clinical thermometers primarily use the Celsius (°C) scale, the standard in medicine and science worldwide.

Key Reference Points (Celsius)

• 0 °C = freezing point of water
• 37 °C = normal human core temperature (range 36.5–37.5 °C)
• 100 °C = boiling point of water at sea level

Fahrenheit (°F) Conversion

°F = (°C × 9/5) + 32

• 98.6 °F = traditional normal (equivalent to 37 °C)
• Fever threshold: ≥38 °C (100.4 °F)

Why Celsius in Medicine?

• SI unit, universal in research and international communication.
• Decimal‑based, easier for calculations.
• Aligns with laboratory and pharmacologic standards.

Many digital thermometers offer dual‑scale display. Always confirm which scale is being used, especially when communicating with clinicians across regions.