Rectal Temperature Procedure

Readings are considered to be more accurate, most reliable, is > 0.650 c (1 0F) higher than the oral temperature.

Procedure
• Explain the procedure to the patient
• Wash hands and assemble necessary equipment and bring to the patient bedside.
• Position the person laterally;
• Apply lubricant 2.5 cm above the bulb;
• Insert the thermometer 1.5 – 4 cm into the anus. For an infant 2.5cm, for a child 3.7 cm – for an adults 4 cm
• Measured for 2-3 minutes
• Remove the thermometer and read the finding
• Clean the thermometer with tissue paper
• A rectal thermometer record does not respond to changes in arterial temperature as quickly as an oral thermometer

Contraindications
• Rectal or perineal surgery;
• Fecal impaction – the depth of the thermometer insertion may be insufficient;
• Rectal infection;
• Neonates –can cause rectal perforation and ulceration;