What instructions does the nurse give the patient to obtain the most accurate tympanic temperature reading?
We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process. Show Tympanic thermometers, or digital ear thermometers, use an infrared sensor to measure the temperature inside the ear canal and can give results within seconds. If a person uses it correctly, the results will be accurate. However, ear thermometers may not be as accurate as contact ones. Ear thermometers are noninvasive, hygienic, quick, and easy to use. Children may also find them more comfortable. Ear thermometers are available for purchase in pharmacies, grocery stores, medical supply stores, and online. This article discusses ear thermometers, their accuracy, how to use them, and alternative methods for taking a temperature. Digital ear thermometers measure the temperature of the tympanic membrane, or eardrum, through an infrared sensor. According to the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS), if a healthcare professional takes a person’s temperature via the ear in a hospital setting, it can give an accurate reflection of the person’s core temperature. However, the following can lead to incorrect readings:
Rectal thermometers, which measure the temperature in the bottom, provide the most accurate readings for infants and toddlers up to 3 years of age. To use an ear thermometer, follow these steps:
It is important to use a clean probe tip each time and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Body temperature can vary depending on different factors, such as a person’s age, their environment, and the time of day. For example, body temperature is lower in the mornings and higher in the evenings. The average body temperature for an adult is 98.6°F (37°C). However, this can range anywhere from 97.7ºF (36.5ºC) to 99.5ºF (37.5ºC). A fever occurs when the body temperature rises above 100.4°F (38°C) for an extended period of time. When an ear thermometer is in a proper position, it is a comfortable option for both children and adults. However, it is not advisable to use an ear thermometer on infants who are 6 months old or younger. Additionally, a person should not use an ear thermometer if they:
The most common methods of temperature assessment include:
People should avoid using glass mercury thermometers as they can be dangerous. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that there is a ban on the retail sale of mercury thermometers in at least 13 states. The NHS notes that it is necessary to contact a healthcare professional if a person is:
Additionally, a person should contact a doctor if the fever has lasted for 5 or more days or has not reduced after they have taken acetaminophen. A person should seek emergency medical attention if they develop any of the following symptoms:
Learn more about average body temperatures and when a person should seek medical help here. A tympanic thermometer, or ear thermometer, is a hand-held device that measures the temperature of the eardrum using an infrared sensor. Tympanic thermometers are available at most grocery, drug, and medical supply stores. As they are noninvasive, ear thermometers are a popular option for parents of young children. However, improper placement and excess earwax, for example, may lead to inaccurate readings. People should not use an ear thermometer on infants who are 6 months old or younger. How can you ensure that a tympanic temperature is accurate?To ensure accurate temperature measurements, the tympanic thermometer probe should be positioned to fit snugly in the ear canal. This will prevent ambient air at the opening of the ear canal from entering it, resulting in a false low temperature measurement.
What is the most accurate way to collect a patient's temperature?Clinical glass thermometers
This is the most accurate and most commonly used thermometer. Digital thermometers are available but they require batteries which may not be readily available.
How do you measure the temperature of the tympanic membrane?For measurement of tympanic membrane temperature, the pinna was gently pulled backwards and the ear thermometer inserted into the external auditory meatus, turned and directed towards the eye. The probe remained briefly (1–2 seconds) in this position until the machine bleeped to signal a recording.
Which of the following is the correct procedure in taking tympanic temperature?For an adult or older child, gently pull the helix up and back to visualize the ear canal. For an infant or younger child (under 3), gently pull the lobe down. The probe is inserted just inside the opening of the ear. Never force the thermometer into the ear and do not occlude the ear canal (OER #1).
|