1: I dont use accurite so I cant help you there. All the thermometers I use get sprayed heavily though. Worst comes to worst take the battery out and let it dry for a day.
2: In order to answer that question some more info about the CWD is needed. What size (snout to vent)? Current condition (underweight, healthy etc). What you are feeding it matters as well. I think a good variety of crickets/worms/rodents will keep him/her happy. If you can sneak in some veg / fruit even better.
Pics are definitely in order! Out of curiosity what are the dimensions of that 80-gallon?