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Thermometer
You can get electronic ones and glass ones. The electronic ones can be used in the mouth or in the bottom (make sure you sterilise it in between, or buy two and label them clearly) and the glass ones can also be used under the armpit.

Rectal temperature checks, i.e the bum, are usually suggested for younger children.

Glass ones should really be left in place for 10 minutes under the armpit and three minutes in the mouth or the bum.

To measure your temperature orally put the thermometer under your tongue - as far back as possible - and close your mouth.

To measure it rectally use lubricant and take care putting it in and taking it out. It doesn't need to be inserted fully, only about 1/2 inch to 1 inch.

Rectal temperatures will read about 1 degree higher than oral ones if they were taken at the same time. Armpit temperatures will be a bit lower.

A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) and above is classed as being a 'significant fever' and you should check it two to three hours later. If it doesn't get better contact a doctor.

Tweezers and small magnifying glass
These are good for removing splinters. The magnifying glass can help you grab hold of the splinter with the tweezers so it doesn't break in your skin. Get a magnifying glass which has a stand so you can rest it on the table, leaving both hands free to remove the splinter, or ingrowing hair.

Medical tape
This is good for strapping fingers together or sticking a dressing onto a wound. It's white because it has zinc oxide in it to prevent infections and it also has a hypoallergenic adhesive.

Where next?

- More information about health conditions
- Kid's health
- Give your body its very own MOT with our health check
- Do you really need to see the doctor? Find out who else could help
- Old wives' tales? Fact or fiction
- Foods that are better than medicine
- When do I need antibiotics?
- Ten symptoms you should never ignore
- How well are you? Take our immune system quiz to find out
- Top tips for boosting your immune system

By Vicky Woollaston

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