354 Chapter 16 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 16.9). Placement of the tympanic thermometer is very important for getting an accurate reading. Too much wax in the ears can interfere with the reading. Do not use this type of thermometer if the resident has a sore ear, has an ear infection, or has had ear surgery. Disposable Oral Thermometers Disposable oral thermometers are used to reduce the risk of cross- or re-infection and to measure the temperature of residents in isolation (Figure 16.8). They are plastic or paper and are discarded once used. The dots on the thermometer change color to show body temperature. Using an Axillary Thermometer—Digital (continued) 17. Hold the probe in place in the axilla until you hear or see the signal that the reading is complete. 18. Remove the thermometer from the axilla and read the temperature on the display screen. Best Practice: Do not touch the probe cover. 19. Dispose of the probe cover safely in a waste container or per facility policy. 20. Clean the probe with alcohol according to facility policy. Return the probe to its storage compartment on the thermometer. 21. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer to ensure infection control. 22. Document the temperature on a pad, on a form, or in the electronic record. 23. Assist the resident in replacing and securing his clothing. 24. If the resident is in bed, check to be sure the bed wheels are locked. Then reposition the resident and lower the bed. 25. Follow the plan of care to determine if the side rails should be raised or lowered. 26. Return the thermometer to a charging location per facility policy. Follow-Up 27. Make sure the resident is comfortable and place the call light and personal items within reach. 28. Conduct a safety check before leaving the room. The room should be clean and free from clutter or spills. 29. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before leaving the room. Reporting and Documentation 30. Report any specific observations, complications, or unusual responses to the licensed nursing staff. Image courtesy of Wards Forest Media, LLC Wards Forest Media, LLC Figure 16.8 Disposable oral thermometers are used once and then discarded. This helps prevent infections from spreading in healthcare facilities. luk/Shutterstock.com Figure 16.9 Tympanic thermometers are handheld and are inserted into the ear to measure tympanic temperature. Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.