TL;DR
Body Temperature: A vital sign measuring core heat, normally 97.8–99.1°F orally, via oral, tympanic, temporal, axillary, or rectal routes.
Body Temperature
Definition
A vital sign measuring core heat, normally 97.8–99.1°F orally, via oral, tympanic, temporal, axillary, or rectal routes.
Overview
Body temperature reflects balance between heat production and loss. The hypothalamus maintains core temperature within a narrow range.
Temperature varies by site, time of day, age, and hormones.
Routes
- Oral: 97.8–99.1°F. Contraindicated in unconscious patients.
- Tympanic: infrared, close to core. Contraindicated with ear infections.
- Temporal artery: non-invasive forehead scan.
- Axillary: least accurate, 1°F lower than oral.
- Rectal: most accurate, 1°F higher than oral. Used in infants.
Abnormal Findings
Fever (pyrexia): >100.4°F. Hyperpyrexia (>106°F) is an emergency. Elderly may not develop fever with infection.
Hypothermia: <95°F. Causes shivering, confusion, dysrhythmias. Report any deviation from baseline immediately.
Why It Matters
CNA and MA exams test temperature routes, normal ranges, and when to report abnormalities.
Related Terms
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