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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 |
