Mercury Hazards
Thermometers in the healthcare setting use mercury to function.
Mercury, a naturally occurring chemical element, is found in the earth's crust, including in coal deposits. Its compounds are found in three general forms:
- Elemental (or metallic).
- Inorganic: Mercury can combine with other elements (mainly chlorine, sulfur, and oxygen) to form inorganic mercury compounds.
- Organic: Mercury may combine with carbon or carbon-containing substances to make organic mercury compounds. These organic compounds are further divided between alkyl (carbon-chain) and aryl (aromatic ring) groups.
Mercury is used in many instruments and products in the healthcare setting because of its uniform response to temperature and pressure changes.
- Sphygmomanometers (blood pressure monitors), laboratory and patient care thermometers, and gastrointestinal devices use mercury to function.
- Mercury compounds are also used in preservatives, fixatives, and reagents. Mercury from medical applications can enter the environment through sewers, spills, and land disposal of trash.
Workers in medical, dental, or other health services working with equipment containing mercury are at risk of exposure to this toxic metal.
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1-1. Why is mercury used in healthcare instruments?
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