A patient has just drunk a hot cup of tea. How should the nurse obtain an oral temperature accurately?

Correct answer: B. Wait about 15 minutes before measuring it

  • A. Measure it immediately before the mouth cools
  • B. Wait about 15 minutes before measuring it
  • C. Measure it under the tongue while the patient talks
  • D. Use the same oral reading without any reassessment

Explanation

Hot or cold drinks can temporarily alter an oral temperature. The nurse should wait about 15 minutes and place the thermometer correctly under the tongue with the mouth closed.

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About Vital Signs and Monitoring

Vital signs include temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure, oxygen saturation and pain assessment. Coverage includes correct measurement sites and techniques, normal adult ranges, factors that alter readings, trends in patient observations, and the difference between an abnormal finding that needs reassessment and one requiring immediate reporting.

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