Axillary temperature is the least accurate because the area is exposed to circulating air outside of the armpit cavity, and in order for the result to be accurate, it takes 10 minutes of holding the thermometer in place. This is hard on the patient and the lab tech/nurse taking the person's temperature.
Axillary
The best method for measuring temperature is rectally, as it provides the most accurate representation of core body temperature. Oral measurements are also reliable but can be affected by factors like recent food or drink intake. Axillary readings are the least accurate and often underrepresent core temperature. Therefore, rectal thermometry is preferred, especially in clinical settings.
There are four ways to get someones temperature: orally (by mouth), axillary (armpit), rectally or they can stick a thermometer in your ear. Axillary is the least accurate but sometimes is the only way to get a persons temperature.
An axillary reading which is a thermometer placed in the armpit. The one that you stick in the ear, 2 seconds later, the temperature is read. It can be done without the patients knowledge if done correctly.
37.5
No, this is an accurate reading. You add a degree when obtaining temperature under the arm (axillary) or in the ear (tympanic).
A blue-tipped thermometer is commonly used for axillary temperature readings.
An axillary temperature is typically 0.5°F (0.3°C) lower than an oral temperature. Therefore, an axillary temperature taken as 98.6°F would be roughly equivalent to an oral temperature of 99.1°F.
Yes, when taking an axillary (armpit) temperature, you typically add 1 degree Fahrenheit to the reading to account for the lower accuracy of this method compared to oral or rectal measurements. Axillary temperatures are generally lower than core body temperatures, so this adjustment helps provide a more accurate estimation of the body's actual temperature. However, it is always best to follow specific guidelines or recommendations from healthcare professionals.
An axillary thermometer should be left in place for about 3-5 minutes to ensure an accurate reading.
putting a probe in the patients armpit?
Taking temperature under the armpit, or axillary temperature, can provide a general estimate of body temperature, but it is typically less accurate than other methods, such as oral or rectal measurements. Factors like sweat, ambient temperature, and improper technique can affect the readings. While it's a convenient option, especially for quick checks in children, it's best to confirm with a more accurate method if precise temperature is needed.