What is the proper method to take an oral temperature?

What is the proper method to take an oral temperature?

• A. Under the armpit for accuracy
• B. Under the tongue and waiting until the thermometer beeps
• C. In the ear for quick results
• D. On the forehead with a digital thermometer

Answer: (B)

Taking an oral temperature using the method where the thermometer is placed under the tongue and waiting for it to beep is the most widely accepted practice for obtaining an accurate reading. Oral temperature measurement captures the heat of the blood vessels under the tongue, providing a good estimate of the body's core temperature. To ensure accuracy, it's important for the individual to keep their mouth closed while the thermometer is in place, thereby allowing the device to register a stable reading. The beep signifies that the thermometer has completed its measurement, indicating it's time to read the result. Other methods listed, such as measuring temperature under the armpit, in the ear, or on the forehead, may not provide the same level of accuracy when measuring core body temperature. While those methods can be quick and non-invasive, they aren't typically as reliable as taking an oral temperature because they can be influenced by external factors such as ambient temperature and placement.

Taking an oral temperature using the method where the thermometer is placed under the tongue and waiting for it to beep is the most widely accepted practice for obtaining an accurate reading. Oral temperature measurement captures the heat of the blood vessels under the tongue, providing a good estimate of the body's core temperature.

To ensure accuracy, it's important for the individual to keep their mouth closed while the thermometer is in place, thereby allowing the device to register a stable reading. The beep signifies that the thermometer has completed its measurement, indicating it's time to read the result.

Other methods listed, such as measuring temperature under the armpit, in the ear, or on the forehead, may not provide the same level of accuracy when measuring core body temperature. While those methods can be quick and non-invasive, they aren't typically as reliable as taking an oral temperature because they can be influenced by external factors such as ambient temperature and placement.