How To Use A Thermometer Rectally

Need to know how to use a thermometer rectally? Most of the time, you can use a thermometer in the mouth. Sometimes, however, it is necessary to use a thermometer rectally. This is the case for babies, who can not hold a thermometer under their tongue for the required amount of time. Read on for more information on using a thermometer in the rectum.

What you'll need to use a thermometer rectally:

• isopropyl alcohol
• rectal thermometer - not a normal glass one!
• antibacterial wipes
• tissues
• gloves
• petroleum jelly

How to Use a Thermometer Rectally:

1. Put on gloves. This is pretty self-explanatory - just pull on your latex or non-latex gloves. Use non-latex if you're allergic to latex.
2. Disinfect the rectal thermometer. Using antibacterial wipes, wipe down the thermometer thoroughly.
3. Shake down thermometer. Shake the thermometer down until it is under 98 degrees.
4. Apply petroleum jelly. Cover the end of the rectal thermometer - about half an inch that will be inserted into the rectum. This is for lubrication.
5. Position the person.  Have the child or person lay on their side with their knees pulled up for easy access to the rectum.
6. Insert rectal thermometer.  Insert the thermometer only one half inch into the rectum in order to get an accurate temperature. Do so in a slow, gentle motion so as not to injure the person.
7. Wait two minutes.  Leave the rectal thermometer inside the rectum for two minutes, and then slowly remove it.
8. Wipe off thermometer.  Wipe the rectal thermometer with tissue to clear off the petroleum jelly.
9. Read the temperature.  Read the thermometer to take the temperature.  A normal rectal temperature is 99.6 degrees fahrenheit.
10. Disinfect the rectal thermometer. Pull out another antibacterial wipe and wipe down the thermometer thoroughly.
11. Remove gloves.  Take off your latex gloves and discard them.
12. Wash hands.  Thoroughly wash your hands with disinfecting soap or hand sanitizer.

That's it - you now know how to use a thermometer rectally.  Although it is more difficult than using an oral thermometer, use of a rectal thermometer is more accurate.  Your rectal thermometer usually comes with directions for use, so you can refer to those as well.