Types of Thermometers and Their Usage

Temperature Measurement

• Normal range for rectal temperature is not specified
• Caution is necessary during insertion of a rectal thermometer to avoid injury to the rectal wall or perforation of the bowel
• Rectal temperature measurement is contraindicated in clients with diarrhea, rectal surgery, or rectal bleeding

Pulse Regulation

• Pulse is regulated by the autonomic nervous system, which includes the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems
• Normal pulse rate range for adults is 60-100 beats per minute

Ear Thermometry

• Temperature reading using a probe inserted into the ear canal should be taken within 1-3 seconds

Temporal Artery Thermometry

• Readings can be affected by factors such as dirty or worn-out sensors, excessive hair or hygiene products, and touching the sensor during measurement

Oral Temperature

• Normal oral temperature range is 35.8-37.2°C (96.4-99°F)
• Client must be able to breathe through the nose, not eat or drink hot or cold substances, and not smoke or chew gum for at least 30 minutes before measurement

Routes of Temperature Measurement

• Axillary route is frequently used for estimating core body temperature

Nutrition and Metabolism

• Primary reason for changes in nutrient needs throughout the life cycle is growth and development
• If daily energy intake is less than total daily energy expenditure, weight loss occurs
• Factors that contribute to an increase in Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) include age, sex, genetics, and body composition
• Involuntary activities that contribute to basal metabolism include breathing, heartbeat, and body temperature regulation
• If daily energy intake exceeds total daily energy expenditure, weight gain occurs

Thermometry

• Temporal artery thermometers can be used orally or axillary
• Oral temperature measurement should not be taken for at least 30 minutes after consuming hot or cold foods, liquids, or engaging in activities like smoking or chewing gum

Blood Pressure Measurement

• Preferred method to measure blood pressure in adults is the auscultatory method
• Automated blood pressure monitors are used for frequent or continuous monitoring
• A nurse should know how to properly position the client, select the correct cuff size, and use the correct technique
• Criteria for using a rectal thermometer measurement include specific medical conditions, such as neonates, and in situations where other methods are not possible

Respiratory System

• Term for difficulty breathing with shallow rapid respirations is tachypnea
• Term for the absence of breaths, where if it lasts more than 4-6 minutes, brain damage and death may occur, is apnea
• Term for breathing that is easier in an upright position is orthopnea
• Increase in blood pressure due to vasoconstriction can be caused by stress, anxiety, or certain medications
• Difference between the systolic and diastolic blood pressure is determined by factors such as cardiac output, peripheral resistance, and blood volume