Why should mercury thermometers not be used in infant incubators?

Mercury thermometers should not be used in infant incubators primarily because mercury is toxic to developing nervous systems. Infants are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of mercury exposure, as their nervous systems are still developing. If a mercury thermometer were to break, any mercury released could pose serious health risks, including neurological damage. Furthermore, newborns and infants are at greater risk of exposure due to their size, and any toxic substances can have more pronounced effects on their development.

Other choices touch on different aspects of thermometer functionality or regulatory issues, but the critical concern in the context of infant care and safety is the toxic potential of mercury. Understanding the impact of toxic exposure on vulnerable populations, such as infants, is essential for ensuring their health and safety in medical environments.