Oral Temperature (Electronic) Flashcards
List the steps for the Oral Temperature (Electronic) procedure
Note: Do not take oral temperature for a resident who is unconscious, uses oxygen, or who is confused/disoriented.
1. Remove the thermometer from storage or batter charger.
2. Do initial steps procedure.
3. Position the resident comfortably in the bed or chair.
4. Put on disposable sheath and place the thermometer and under the tongue and to one side, press button to activate the thermometer.
5. The resident should be directed to breathe through their nose.
6. Instruct the resident to hold the thermometer in their mouth with their lips closed. Assist as necessary.
7. Leave the thermometer in place until the signal is heard, indicating the temperature has been obtained.
8. Read the temperature reading on the face of the electronic device, remove the thermometer, discard the sheath, and record the reading.
9. Do final steps procedure.
10. Return the thermometer to storage or battery charger.
11. Report any unusual readings to the nurse.
What is the rationale for step “4. Put on disposable sheath and place the thermometer and under the tongue and to one side, press button to activate the thermometer.”?
The thermometer measures the heat from blood vessels under the tongue.
What is the rationale for step “6. Instruct the resident to hold the thermometer in their mouth with their lips closed. Assist as necessary.”?
The lips hold the thermometer in position.
What is the rationale for step “8. Read the temperature reading on the face of the electronic device, remove the thermometer, discard the sheath, and record the reading.”?
Record the temperature immediately so you won’t forget. Accuracy is necessary because decisions regarding resident’s care may be based on your report. What you document is a legal record of what you did. If you don’t document it, legally, it didn’t happen.
What is the rationale for step “11. Report any unusual readings to the nurse.”?
Provides the nurse with necessary information to properly assess resident’s condition and needs.
