|
Thermometers are helpful in two ways.
For victims with a fever (pyrexia), the extent of fever can be
determined.
For victims with hypothermia (abnormally low temperatures), the
recovery can be monitored more precisely.
Body core temperature (normally about 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit or 37
degrees Celsius) can be measured either orally or rectally.
- Clean the thermometer with alcohol (if possible) or any other
cleansing agent to prevent transmission of bacteria and viruses from
the previous user.
- Shake down the thermometer until the fluid inside measures less than
the index.
- Place the tip of the thermometer in the victims mouth, if conscious
and able to cooperate. The tip should be held underneath the
tongue.
- If the victim is unconscious or unable to cooperate (small children,
for example), lubricate the tip of the thermometer with vaseline or
any oily substance, then insert the thermometer 1/2" inside the
rectum. Hold it in place.
- After two minutes, the thermometer can be removed and read.
A relatively easy (though a little less accurate) technique is to place
the thermometer under the armpit (axilla). Keep the armpit closed for 3
minutes, and then read the value. These axillary temperatures are about 1
degree (F) lower than the core temperature. This means an axillary
temperature of 99.5 degrees reflects a body core temperature of 100.5
degrees.
After use, clean the thermometer (preferably with alcohol), and replace
it back in its' protective case.
There is no practical difference between a "rectal"
thermometer and an "oral" thermometer. Either can be used orally
or rectally.
Thermometer
Clinical Human Rectal Fahrenheit Scale Red Tip
Weight: 0.06 pounds
NSN: 6515-00-149-1407
Thermometer Clinical Human Rectal
Subnormal Low Reading 86-100 Degree Fahrenheit
Weight: 0.06 Pounds
NSN: 6515-01-375-3244
Approved for public release; Distribution is unlimited.
The listing of any non-Federal product in this CD is
not an endorsement of the product itself, but simply an acknowledgement of the
source.
Operational Medicine 2001
Health Care in Military Settings
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Bureau of
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Department of the Navy
2300 E Street NW
Washington, D.C
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Operational
Medicine
Health Care in Military Settings
CAPT Michael John Hughey, MC, USNR
NAVMED P-5139
January 1, 2001 |
United States Special Operations Command
7701 Tampa Point Blvd.
MacDill AFB, Florida
33621-5323 |
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