Temperature

Question 1

What does apyrexial mean?

Answer 1

Normal temp (36.2 - 37.7 degrees)

Question 2

What is pyrexia?

Answer 2

High temperature - fever/ hyperthermia

Question 3

What does hypothermia mean?

Answer 3

Low temperature

Core temp: 36 = cold, 35 = shiver, 34 = clumsy/confused, 32 = muscle stiffness, 28 = MI risk

Question 4

What is the most common type of thermometer used?

Answer 4

Tympanic - uses IR to detect temperature at the tympanic membrane (ear drum)

Question 5

What is the process for taking temperature?

Answer 5

1) Put disposable cap over thermometer nozzle
2) Turn on, place nozzle just inside ear canal, point forwards
3) Depress button until beep heard, gently withdraw nozzle, note temperature
4) Record, report any abnormalities

Always check manufacturer’s instructions

Question 6

List 4 other types of thermometer besides tympanic.

Answer 6

• Rectal: more reliable core temp but invasive
• Oral digital: buccal (in cheek) and sublingual (under tongue), must be held in place long enough, will give reading slightly lower than core remp
• Body surface: axilla and groin, needs to be held for long enough, may give significantly lower result than core
• Forehead: least intrusive, good for babies and toddlers