Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Chapter 18 Vital Signs, Height, and Weight 465 Temporal Artery Thermometers Temporal artery thermometers use the surface temperature of the temporal artery to measure body temperature. This type of temperature is often more accurate than an oral temperature because it is not affected by what a patient eats or drinks. Temporal artery thermometers can measure the temperature of arteries on either side of the head using a handheld, infrared scanner with a digital display (Figure 18.13). The device is swept across the forehead to read the patient’s temperature. Sometimes a forehead thermometer strip is also used to measure a patient’s temperature at this location (Figure 18.14). These strips contain heat-sensitive liquid crystals that change color to reflect different temperatures. Michael Dechev/Shutterstock.com Figure 18.13 Temporal artery thermometers measure the temperature of the temporal arteries on either side of the forehead. wheatley/Shutterstock.com Figure 18.14 Forehead thermometer strips change color to indicate body 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. The temporal artery thermometer, used on the forehead, can also be used to take a temperature. This thermometer is less invasive than others because it does not need to enter a body cavity. 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. 8. Bring the necessary equipment into the room. Place the following items in an accessible location: • a temporal artery thermometer • a pen and pad, form, or digital device for recording the temperature The Procedure 9. Provide privacy by closing the curtains, using a screen, or closing the door to the room. 10. If the resident is in bed, lock the bed wheels and then raise the bed to hip level. (continued) Using a Temporal Artery Thermometer—Digital Procedure