VITALSIGNS PART 1 - BODY TEMPERATURE FOR NURSING STUDENTS

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on understanding body temperature as a vital sign for nursing students. Body temperature is an essential measurement that reflects the body's core functions and can indicate health status. Monitoring it accurately is crucial for diagnosing and managing medical conditions.

Step 1: Understand Normal Body Temperature

• Normal body temperature ranges from 97.8°F (36.5°C) to 99°F (37.2°C) for a healthy adult.
• Factors influencing body temperature include:
  • Gender
  • Recent physical activity
  • Food and fluid intake
  • Time of day
  • Menstrual cycle stage in women

Step 2: Learn Different Methods of Measuring Body Temperature

Body temperature can be measured using several methods, each with its own considerations:

1. Oral Method:

   • Use either a glass thermometer (not recommended due to mercury content) or a digital thermometer.
   • Place the thermometer under the tongue and wait until it beeps (for digital) or the reading stabilizes (for glass).

2. Rectal Method:

   • Generally provides the most accurate core temperature.
   • Use a digital or glass thermometer. Insert gently about an inch into the rectum.
   • Rectal temperatures are typically 0.5 to 0.7°F higher than oral readings.

3. Axillary Method:

   • Measure temperature under the arm.
   • Considered less accurate, with temperatures about 0.3 to 0.4°F lower than oral readings.

4. Ear Method:

   • Use a tympanic thermometer to measure the temperature of the ear drum.
   • Provides a quick reflection of core body temperature.

5. Skin Method:

   • Utilize a forehead thermometer for a quick skin temperature reading.
   • Note that this may not always reflect core temperature accurately.

Step 3: Recognize Abnormal Temperature Readings

• Fever:

  • Defined as a body temperature of 100.6°F (38.1°C) or higher, indicating a potential infection or illness.

• Hypothermia:

  • Occurs when body temperature drops below 95°F (35°C).
  • It can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

Step 4: Safety Considerations with Thermometers

• Glass thermometers containing mercury pose health and environmental risks.
• If using glass thermometers:
  • Handle with care to avoid breakage.
  • Dispose of properly if broken or no longer in use, following local regulations. Contact local authorities for disposal guidelines.

Conclusion

Monitoring body temperature is a critical skill for nursing students and healthcare professionals. Understanding how to measure it accurately, recognize normal and abnormal values, and handle thermometers safely are essential components of patient care. For further learning, explore additional vital signs such as pulse rate, respiration rate, and blood pressure, which are also vital in assessing patient health.