Taking a rectal temperature
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Position the patient on his side with his top leg flexed, and drape him to provide privacy. Then fold back the bed linens to expose the anus.
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Squeeze the lubricant onto a facial tissue to prevent contamination of the lubricant supply.
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Lubricate about ½″ (1.3 cm) of the thermometer tip for an infant, 1″ (2.5 cm) for a child, or about 1½″ (3.8 cm) for an adult. Lubrication reduces friction and thus eases insertion. This step may be unnecessary when using disposable rectal sheaths because they’re prelubricated.
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Lift the patient’s upper buttock, and insert the thermometer about ½″ (1.3 cm) for an infant or 1½″ (3.8 cm) for an adult. Gently direct the thermometer along the rectal wall toward the umbilicus. This will avoid perforating the anus or rectum or breaking the thermometer. It will also help ensure an accurate reading because the thermometer will register hemorrhoidal artery temperature instead of fecal temperature.
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Hold the mercury thermometer in place for 2 to 3 minutes, or the electronic thermometer until the maximum temperature is displayed. Holding the thermometer prevents damage to rectal tissues caused by displacement or loss of the thermometer into the rectum.
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Carefully remove the thermometer, wiping it as necessary. Then wipe the patient’s anal area to remove any lubricant or feces.
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