Principles of Temperature Measurement Flashcards

1
Q

Define thermoregulation

A

the balance of heat gain and heat loss

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2
Q

What is the normal body temperature

A

37 degrees C

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3
Q

What do body tissues do to maintain body temp?

A

produce heat as a result of cell metabolism

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4
Q

The hypothalamus is known as …

A

the body thermostat controlling the body temp

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5
Q

What does the hypothalamus do to maintain body temp?

A
  • initiates heat losing activities when nec.
  • blood vessels come to surface to relieve heat
  • flush on your face to release heat
  • sweat
  • heat gaining activities if nec. - shivering
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6
Q

What happens if the body temp rises above 37 degrees C?

A

The sympathetic nervous system is activated and sweating is induced, heat is lost by evaporation

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7
Q

Define pyrexia

A

if core temp exceeds 38 degrees C

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8
Q

pyrexia increases pulse and resp rate, which could lead to…

A

brain dysfunction, coma, cardiac collapse, death

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9
Q

define hypothermia

A

if core temp falls below 33 degrees C

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10
Q

hypothermia can result in…

A

fatigue, unconsciousness, uncoordinated muscle activity

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11
Q

List factors that affect body temo

A
time of day
ovulation
menstrual cycle
digestion
metabolic rate
hot baths
fever
alcohol
exercise
arousal
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12
Q

Pregnant women often have increased blood flow to the extremities, such as..

A

warm hands and feet

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13
Q

Basal metabolic rate is raised in pregnancy, by how much?

A

0.5 degrees C

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14
Q

What can happen is maternal temperature is elevated

A

foetus compromised

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15
Q

Name the 5 sites of temperature recording

A
oral cavity
tympanic membrane (ear)
axilla (armpit)
skin/forehead
rectum
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16
Q

Describe/list the procedure for taking a temperature reading from any site

A
gain verbal nonsense
ensure infection control procedure
locate equipment
explain procedure
ensure comfort, privacy, dignity
- apply and read thermometer
- inform women of results and significance
- record results