What can I do my confused and disorented patient doesn't let me take his temperature?

Answer 1

First listen to what the person is saying and discuss what they are saying ( no matter how bizarre; how would you would feel if somebody told you that your view was uniquely yours and that EVERYONE else saw things differently) . Be reassuring and comforting, don't rush, and gradually as the person relaxes ( because another human being seems to understand them at last!), without making any sudden moves and while chatting , just quietly say that your are going to take their temperature because you want to make sure that they are well because it is important to you that they are, at the same time as taking their temperature. It is also a good idea initially to touch and then hold the persons hand in a comforting way, not for restraint but for comfort. If that fails then observation will have to suffice e.g. pallor ( normal or flushed), any sign of rigour or shivering, any signs that the person may be in pain ( knees drawn up towards chest indicating abdominal pain, and , or , where are they putting their hands on their body and what are they doing with their hands. Above all be calm ( I know this can be really difficult if harassed and numerous other people to attend to ) and reassuring but be firm that this needs to be done for the persons own good - none of this involves raising your voice or sounding angry. If you fail on the first attempt ( and your patience is running out!) then it is probably better to move on to the next person/task and return in 5 , 10 minutes and try again. If the person's temperature reading is desperately needed because of the persons condition then you may need to consult a doctor regarding a small amount of sedation, or less dramatically, you could ask somebody else to do the hand holding and reassuring while you do the deed, Usually the person is so very glad to find that there is another person who understands them and their concerns that they do not even notice. Good luck to you both!