Body temperature readings vary depending on where on the body a person takes the measurements. These thermometers can be used in the rectum mouth or armpit. Corrected and republished from br j nurs. Rectal readings are higher than oral readings while armpit readings tend to be lower. Grodzinsky ewa british journal of nursing882013 vol. To do this many governments and businesses rely on thermometer guns devices that use infrared sensors to measure a persons surface temperature without touching their skin.
With regard to diagnosing ethics safety and the patients dignity the tympanic ear thermometer might comprise a desirable alternative to rectal noninvasive measurement of body temperature. Regular digital thermometers use electronic heat sensors to record body temperature. The probe can be placed in the mouth rectum or armpit. 22 issue 15 p880. Assessment of body temperature is important for decisions in nursing care medical diagnosis treatment and the need of laboratory tests. 2013 aug 8 sep 122215880 882 8.
Fluid expansion temperature measurement devices fluid expansion devices typified by the household thermometer generally come in two main classifications. Versions employing gas instead of liquid are also available. Place the probe under the tongue and close the mouth. A german doctor in the 19 th century set the standard at 986 f but more recent studies say the baseline for most people is closer to 982 f. Rectal temperatures provide the best readings for infants especially those 3 months or younger as well as children up to age 3. Sund levander m1 grodzinsky e.
Assessment of body temperature measurement options. The mercury type and the organic liquid type. Armpit temperatures are usually the least accurate. For a typical adult body temperature can be anywhere. 1senior lecturer at faculty of health sciences linköping university and futurumacademy of health and care jönköping county council sweden. Assessment of body temperature measurement options.
Breathe through the nose. An easy to read panel shows the temperature.