Oral measurement

Procedure	Rationale
Assist client into a comfortable position, explain procedure, and gain consent	For information-giving and client comfort
Hold mercury thermometer at eye level, rotating slightly to ensure mercury line is visible. Check mercury is low enough to record the temperature. If not, shake it down in a downward direction, taking care not to hit any nearby objects	For accuracy of measurement. To prevent breakage
Cover thermomenter with a disposable cover	To reduce infection risk
Place thermometer under the client’s tongue beside the frenulum	To ensure correct reading
Advise client not to talk, to keep lips closed to form a seal and, if fully co-operative, ask them to hold the thermometer in situ. Leave in place for a minimum of seven minutes	To keep thermometer in place. If the client is unable to hold the thermometer in situ consider using another route. To allow adequate time for the thermometer to register
Remove thermometer, remove cover, read at eye level, record results and report any significant change	To ensure continuity of care and prompt attention if necessary
Clean thermometer according to local policy	To minimize cross-infection

Using a digital thermometer

Follow the procedure outlined above but wait for the signal that signifies that the highest temperature has been reached.