The young mother of an 8-month-old patient brought her daughter to the clinic after taking the little girl's temperature rectally and obtaining a reading of 100.4° F.The mother was concerned that her daughter might be ill.Which of the following is the best response?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Depending on the site,temperatures will normally vary between 36° C (96.8° F)and 38° C (100.4° F).It is generally accepted that rectal temperatures are usually 0.5° C (0.9° F)higher than oral temperatures.Children have immature temperature control mechanisms,so temperatures sometimes rise rapidly.Most fevers in children are of viral origin,lasting only briefly,and have limited effects.Use the same site when repeated measurements are needed.

The Young Mother of an 8-Month-Old Patient Brought Her Daughter