Basic Nursing SkillsQuestion 108 of 200

Tympanic temperature is taken by:

a.Inserting the probe deep into the ear canal forcefully
b.Pointing the probe at the eardrum without a probe cover
c.Applying a clean probe cover, gently pulling the adult ear pinna up and back to straighten the canal, inserting the probe snugly aimed at the eardrum, and waiting for the device to signal
d.Holding the device near the cheek

Explanation

Tympanic technique: apply a clean disposable probe cover, gently pull the pinna up and back for adults (down and back for children under 3) to straighten the ear canal, insert the probe snugly aimed at the tympanic membrane, activate, and wait for the audible/visual signal. Forceful insertion (a) risks ear injury; no cover (b) is unhygienic; cheek (d) measures skin, not core. Cerumen and incorrect aim affect accuracy.

Law Reference: Fundamentals; tympanic temperature

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