The correct method for taking body temperature under the tongue

Jan 06, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Taking temperature under the tongue is known as oral measurement. After disinfecting the thermometer, place it under the patient's tongue and wait for five minutes before reading the result. Do not talk or bite down on the thermometer with your teeth during measurement to avoid breaking it and causing injury to the mouth. Note that this method should not be used for unconscious patients or young children, as they may break the thermometer, posing a risk of harm.

Measuring body temperature under the tongue is known as the oral method. After disinfecting the thermometer, place it under the patient's tongue and wait quietly for five minutes before reading the result. During measurement, do not speak or bite down on the thermometer with your teeth, to avoid breaking it and causing injury to the mouth. The specific steps for measuring temperature under the tongue are as follows:

1. Disinfect the thermometer with alcohol. After the alcohol has dried, hold the end of the thermometer and shake it vigorously until the reading drops below 35°C.

2. Place the sensing tip of the thermometer beneath the back of the tongue, on either side of the lingual frenulum.

3. Keep the lips tightly closed around the thermometer without speaking. After five minutes, remove the thermometer and read the temperature.

Note: This method should not be used for unconscious patients or young children, as they may accidentally break the thermometer by biting it, which could lead to injury. If any discomfort occurs, seek medical attention promptly. It is recommended to visit a qualified hospital and perform the procedure under the guidance of a healthcare professional.