An male client 86 years of age with a diagnosis of vascular dementia and cardiomyopathy is exhibiting signs and symptoms of pneumonia. The nurse has attempted to assess his temperature using an oral thermometer, but the client is unable to follow directions to close his mouth and secure the thermometer sublingually. Additionally, he repeatedly withdraws his head when the nurse attempts to use a tympanic thermometer. How should the nurse proceed with this assessment?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

DIn situations where a patient is unable to cooperate with oral or tympanic temperature measurements, alternative methods such as axillary (under the arm) and rectal temperatures can be used. Axillary temperatures are less invasive and can be easier to obtain in uncooperative patients, though they may be slightly less accurate. Rectal temperatures are considered very accurate and can be used when precise measurements are necessary, but they are more invasive. Disposable mercury thermometers are not recommended due to the risk of mercury exposure if the thermometer breaks. Assessing skin tone and the presence of sweating is not a reliable method for determining body temperature.

An Male Client 86 Years of Age with a Diagnosis