How to take a Rectal Temperature

How to take a Rectal Temperature

From the library of

Frank Barnhill, M.D.

A lot of people are afraid of rectal thermometers. After all, no one really wants to put it in, much less have it put in. But whatever the reason, the rectal thermometer is still the best home use device to check a person for a fever. A few common sense tips can make it’s use much easier.

Using a rectal thermometer:

avoid scaring the person by saying this won’t hurt. Most children know when you say those words, that means it probably will hurt.
reassure by saying “this will be a little uncomfortable, but won’t cause any changes to your body”.
always use KY jelly or Vaseline to lubricate the anus and the thermometer before insertion.
grasp the end of the thermometer away from the bulb between thumb and forefinger and shake away from your body to force the liquid indicator level below 96 degrees.
position the person to be tested flat on his or her stomach or back.
insert the thermometer bulb straight into the anus for about 1&1/2 inches.
leave the thermometer in for about three minutes.
remove the stem the reverse way, straight out. Never twist or bend it.
read the temperature by holding the stem in both hands and rotating back and forth to see the liquid line just as if looking at the long edge of a sharp knife. If the reading is above 100.4 see “About Fevers….”.

Shake indicator liquid level back down so it will be ready for next use.

Dr. Frank

These health tips are offered for your common sense use and are not intended to take the place of a visit to your doctor. Your use of the materials implies your understanding that nothing herein contained represents individual medical advice.

drhuggiebear, drhuggiebear.com and contained materials are the copyrighted and/or registered properties of Frank Barnhill, M.D. and may not be reproduced for profit without the express written permission of the author. All materials may be photocopied in whole for educational use. For information please contact us at drfrank@drhuggiebear.com.