These are the most accurate measurements since the temperature is measured internally. All non invasive methods to measure body temperature eg oral axillary tympanic temporal artery have accuracy and precision variances unique to each type of method when compared to core temperature methods eg rectal temperature bridges thomas 2009. The measurement is taken from the rectum and though accurate this technique can be very inconvenient. In the united states temperatures are often measured in degrees fahrenheit. Choose the body part. Press the arm against the body.
The usual time for which thermometer is kept is 5 minutes. If youre using a digital stick thermometer there are three options. Oral axillary ie underarm and rectal. Armpit method the thermometer is placed underarm with the bulb in the center of the armpit. In evaluating accuracy and precision of temperature measurement methods it is. But the temperature readings vary depending on which one you use and you need an accurate body temperature to determine if a fever is present.
The first factor to consider when taking a persons temperature is the measurement site. Temperature measurement is recommended by the national institute of clinical excellence a part of the initial assessment in acute illness in adults nice 2007 and by the scottish intercollegiate guidelines network guidelines for post operative management in adults sign. Rectal tre and oesophageal. The normal body temperature when measured from the rectum should be 996 degrees fahrenheit. The mercury thermometer most commonly used to measure oral temperature toral has been almost exclusively the only instrument for measuring tc since the 18th century. Armpit temperature reading may be as much as 1f 06c lower than an oral.
Place the probe under the tongue and close the mouth. Breathe through the nose. The probe can be placed in the mouth rectum or armpit. Choosing the right thermometer there are different thermometers to choose from depending on which body area you wish. An easy to read panel shows the temperature. Body temperature is one of the four main vital signs that must be monitored to ensure safe and effective care.
The standard in most other countries is degrees celsius. Thermometers show body temperature in either degrees fahrenheit f or degrees celsius c. How to measurebody temperature correctly 1. Monitoring internal body tc accurately requires invasive methods of measurement. Taking temperature is a relatively simple procedure. You can take a temperature using the mouth oral anus rectal armpit axillary or ear tympanic.
But there are a few things you can do to get more accurate readings and as a result ensure the best experience from your thermometer. Remove the thermometer and read it. Rectal measurement taking a rectal measurement is the most reliable way to obtain a core.