Measuring a Patient's Body Temperature

Measuring a Patient's Body Temperature

1. Temperature Site

   • Oral
     • Risk of exposure to body fluids
     • Not appropriate for children
     • Provides accurate reading
     • Easily accessible site
     • Reflects changes in core temperature
     • Affected by oral intake, smoking, oxygen delivery
   • Axillary
     • Safe and non-invasive
     • Can be used on unconscious patients
     • Requires continuous positioning
     • Long measurement time
   • Rectal
     • Reliable reading
     • Inappropriate for newborns
     • Very invasive
     • Exposure to bodily fluids
   • Tympanic
     • Easily accessible site
     • Very rapid measurement
     • Unaffected by oral intake
     • Readings affected by cerumen
     • Measurement is variable

2. Nursing Considerations

   • Patient Factors
     • Has the patient smoked or chewed gum recently?
     • Has the patient recently consumed hot/cold liquids or foods?
     • Is the patient using an oxygen delivery device?
   • Availability of Required Equipment
     • PPE
     • Alcohol swabs
     • Lubricant (if rectal meaurement)
     • Disposable probe covers
   • Policy and Procedure
     • CNO Standards
     • RNAO Best Practice Guidelines
     • Agency Policy and Procedure
     • Documentation

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