TEMPERATURE TECHNIQUES – Principles, Equipment and Procedure (COMMUNITY HEALTH NURSING)
UPDATED 2024
A clinical thermometer is a special instrument designed to measure the temperature of the body. Two thermometers – one oral and one rectal – are essential equipment which the nurse always carries in her bag. Elevation in temperature is an indication that the body is reacting to an infection
PRINCIPLES
- Meticulous cleaning of thermometer before and after use is essential to prevent the spread of infection
- Temperature is usually taken by mouth. Rectal temperatures are most accurate while auxillary temperatures are least accurate
- Shake the mercury to 95 degree F before taking the temperature
- Keep all thermometers in the shade and in the coolest part of the building
- Accuracy in temperature helps in effective treatment and medical decision
EQUIPMENT
- Ten small cotton swabs
- Kidney basin to hold moist cotton swabs
- Thermometer
- Lubricant for rectal temperature
- Paper bag
PROCEDURE
- Use bag technique as per standard precautions
- Remove the thermometer swab up to bulb and read
- Place the thermometer at proper site
- Rinse the thermometer thoroughly under cool running water after reading
- Replace it in the community bag and wash hands
- Record it in the TPR sheet
