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Page 2 The measurement site also affects response time for most digital stick thermometers because of improved surface con- tact with the probe. Rectal measurements are faster than oral, which are faster than axillary. A typical 60-second digital stick thermometer measures orally in about 60 seconds and rectally in about 45 seconds, while axillary measurement will take 75 to 90 seconds. Digital Stick Technology Why does response time vary? Because most stick thermom- eters use a technology referred to as "peak hold" (the other technology is "predictive"). Peak-hold thermometers display a reading when no further increase in temperature is observed. The circuitry is designed to obtain an accurate reading in about the time stated in the packaging or product specs. Peak hold are most commonly offered in 60-, 30-, and 18-second (oral) models; the faster the reading the more expensive. Though typical digital stick thermometers measure orally in 60 seconds, some read in as little as two seconds. These faster units often use predictive technology, which displays readings in exactly the time indicated in their specification. To do that, they predict the final reading using proprietary software. Proper Oral Measurement Technique Since oral is by far and away the most popular measurement site, let's chat a bit about the proper technique. First, it's impor- tant that the patient's oral temperature is stabilized. If they just came in from cold weather or had a sip of hot coffee or cold soda, wait a few minutes before taking the measurement. The probe tip should be seated under the tongue in the sub- lingual pocket, which is where the back of the tongue and floor of the mouth meet. The patient's mouth should be relaxed. Clamping elevates temperature and risks damage to the ther- mometer. Even though thermometers today are generally very light, we recommend holding them in place with the hand (ei- ther the patient's or the practitioner's). That reduces the risk of biting the thermometer or letting it slip from position. Patients shouldn't talk during measurement. Unexpected Measurements What if you get a bad reading? Try another measurement. In all likelihood, the probe wasn't seated properly, or the patient's mouth wasn't given the chance to stabilize. If you get a second reading that doesn't appear right but is consistent with the previous reading, it probably is correct. And remember, you're generally looking for meaningful vari- ances from a temperature baseline. A temperature of 99.2°F taken rectally is probably not an issue for most patients. For an oral reading, it's marginal. Most physicians are concerned when oral temperature exceeds 99.9°F and rectal exceeds 99.5°F to 100.9°F. How to Get an Accurate Temperature Measurement (continued) + ward ' s science 5100 West Henrietta Road • PO Box 92912 • Rochester, New York 14692-9012 • p: 800 962-2660 • wardsci.com Source: "How to Get an Accurate Temperature Measurement ," https://www.adctoday.com/blog/ how-get-accurate-temperature-measurement", (c) American Diagnostic Corporation. Used with permission.

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