Chapter 2: Temperature

Finding the Error Activity: Tympanic Temperature – Feedback

An incorrect technique is being demonstrated in Figure 2.9 because the helix is not being pulled up and back. For an adult/older child, the correct technique (Figure 2.10) involves gently pulling the helix up and back so that the ear canal is visualized and the light can reflect off of the tympanic membrane.

  Incorrect technique of taking tympanic temperature

Healthcare practitioner incorrectly placing the tympanic thermometer directly into ear without pulling helix up and back

Figure 2.9: Incorrect technique

  Correct technique of taking tympanic temperature

For an adult/older child, gently pull the helix up and back while stabilizing the client’s head with your hand.

Healthcare practitioner pulling helix up and back and directing tympanic probe towards tympanic membrance

Figure 2.10: Correct technique

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Vital Sign Measurement Across the Lifespan - 1st Canadian edition Copyright © 2018 by Ryerson University is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.