Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Chapter 18 Vital Signs, Height, and Weight 463 Disposable Oral Thermometers Another type of thermometer is the disposable oral thermometer (Figure 18.9). Disposable oral thermometers are used to reduce the risk of cross- or re-infection and to measure the temperature of patients in isolation. They are plastic or paper and are discarded once used. The dots on the thermometer change color to show body temperature. Tympanic Thermometers A tympanic thermometer measures the temperature of aural blood vessels, or blood vessels in the ear. Tympanic temperature is taken on the tympanic membrane, or eardrum. Tympanic thermometers are usually battery-operated, are handheld, and have a digital display on the handle (Figure 18.10). Placement of the tympanic thermometer is very important for getting an accurate reading. In addition, too much wax in the ears can interfere with the reading. Do not use this type of thermometer if the patient has a sore ear, has an ear infection, or has had ear surgery. Wards Forest Media, LLC Figure 18.9 Disposable oral thermometers are used once and then discarded. They help prevent infections from spreading in healthcare facilities. luk/Shutterstock.com Figure 18.10 Tympanic thermometers are handheld and are inserted into the ear to measure tympanic temperature. Rationale Body temperature that is outside the normal range can be a sign of a disease or condition or the result of an injury. Tympanic (ear) thermometers are another option for taking temperatures. Placement is most important for an accurate reading. Always follow the thermometer manufacturer’s instructions and facility policy. Preparation 1. Ask the licensed nursing staff how this procedure fits into the plan of care, if there are doctor’s orders for the procedure, if there are any special instructions or precautions, and if the resident can be moved into the positions required for this procedure. 2. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before entering the room. 3. Knock before entering the room. 4. Introduce yourself using your full name and title. Explain that you work with the licensed nursing staff and will be providing care. 5. Greet the resident and ask the resident to state his full name, if able. Then check the resident’s identification bracelet. 6. Use Mr., Mrs., or Ms. and the last name when conversing. 7. Explain the procedure in simple terms, even if the resident is not able to communicate or is disoriented. Ask permission to perform the procedure. (continued) Using a Tympanic Thermometer—Digital Procedure