Taking a Rectal Temperature

Material needed:

• Glass rectal thermometer with a wrapper
• Watch with a second hand
• Toilet tissue
• Disposable gloves
• Water soluble lubricant
• Pencil
• Paper

Procedure:

1. Explain what you are going to do
2. Put client in bed
3. Wash your hands
4. Obtain material listed above
5. Clean glass thermometer
6. Shake down mercury if needed
7. Provide privacy (close door, pull curtains)
8. Place client in Sims' position
9. Put on gloves
10. Place small amount of lubricant on toilet tissue. Lubricate bulb end of the thermometer
11. Fold back top linens and remove clothing to exposed anal area
12. Raise upper buttocks to expose anus
13. Gently insert thermometer one inch into rectum
14. Hold in place for three (3) minutes
15. Remove thermometer
16. Wipe thermometer with toilet tissue from stem end to bulb end. Place soiled tissue on several folder layers of toilet tissue
17. Place thermometer on clean toilet tissue
18. Cleanse excess lubricant and feces from anal area using toilet tissue
19. Replace clothing and cover client
20. Discard soiled toilet tissue into toilet
21. Remove gloves and wash your hands
22. Read the thermometer and then place it back on the tissue
23. Write the temperature on the paper
24. Clean and dry glass thermometer.
25. Shake down the glass thermometer
26. Store thermometer in holder in proper location
27. Wash your hands
28. Make sure client is safe and comfortable
29. Record temperature on client's record. Indicate "R" for rectal temperature
30. Report any abnormal temperature to the nurse or family member