THE DIFFERENT METHODS OF TEMPERATURE MEASUREMENT
Core Temperature
Core temperature is the most precise measurement and involves measuring the
temperature in the pulmonary artery by means of a catheter equipped with a thermal
probe, which can read the temperature in situ. The same method is employed for probes
measuring the esophageal temperature. However, such invasive temperature measurement
methods require specific equipment and expertise.
Rectal Thermometry
Rectal temperature adjusts slowly in comparison to the evolution of the body’s internal
temperature. It has been demonstrated that rectal temperature remains raised long after
the internal temperature of the patient has started to drop and vice versa. Furthermore,
rectal perforations have been known to occur as a result of this method and without
appropriate sterilization techniques, rectal thermometry can spread germs often
found in feces.
Oral Thermometry
Oral temperature is easily influenced by recent ingestion of food or drinks and by breathing
through the mouth. To measure oral temperature, the mouth must remain closed and tongue
lowered for three to four minutes, which is a difficult task for young children to accomplish.
Axillary (armpit) temperature
Although it may be easy to measure axillary temperature, it has been proven that it does
not provide an accurate measurement of the child’s internal temperature. To take this type
of temperature, the thermometer must be wedged tightly over the axillary artery. Despite
the low sensitivity and relative inaccuracy of axillary temperature in detecting fever, this
method is recommended by The American Academy of Pediatrics as a screening test for
fever in newborns.
Tympanic thermometry
In order to obtain a precise temperature reading, good command of the measurement
technique is required. The thermometer probe must be placed as close as possible to the
warmest part of the external ear canal. An incorrectly placed probe could lead to a false
temperature reading.
4
NORMAL TEMPERATURES ACCORDING TO MEASUREMENT METHOD
MEASUREMENT METHOD
NORMAL TEMP
°
F
°C
RECTAL
ORAL
AXILLARY
AURICULAR
TEMPORAL
97.9
°
F – 100.4
°
F
95.0
°
F – 99.5
°
F
94.5
°
F – 99.1
°
F
96.4
°
F – 100.4
°
F
96.4
°
F – 100.0
°
F
36.6
°
C – 38
°
C
35.5
°
C – 37.5
°
C
34.7
°
C – 37.3
°
C
35.8
°
C – 38
°
C
35.8
°
C – 37.8
°
C
The temperature of the human
body varies throughout the day.
It can also be influenced by
numerous external factors:
age, sex, type and thickness
of skin etc…
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