When assessing the temperature of newborns and children, the nurse decides to utilize a temporal artery thermometer. What is the rationale for the nurse's action?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The temporal artery thermometer is especially beneficial when used in premature infants, newborns, and children because there is no risk of injury to the patient or nurse. Temporal artery temperature is a reliable noninvasive measure of core temperature. However, it is inaccurate with head covering or hair on the forehead and is affected by skin moisture such as diaphoresis, or sweating. It provides very rapid measurement and reflects rapid changes in core temperature, not radiant temperature.

When Assessing the Temperature of Newborns and Children, the Nurse