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Is Breathing Through Mouth An Absolute Contraindication To Take Oral Temperature?
Question: I have a question since I am a mouth breather am I really not supposed to be taking my temperature under my tongue is this true or false if it's true how should I be taking my temperature should I be taking my temperature under my arm.
Brief Answer:
Mouth breathing is not an absolute contraindication.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome to HCM,
I have read your query and understand the concern,
Mouth breathing is not an absolute contraindication to take oral temperature.
Usually,nurses take oral temperature unless and until the treating physician has instructed them to take temperature by alternative methods means by Axillary or Rectally.
When Oral temperature is being taken,one should ensure that the patient should keep his mouth closed and he/she is able to breath through his/her nose for 1 minute.
However,if there is some contraindications to take oral temperature then it can be taken by Axillary method (under arm). There is no issue with it.
Hope this helps.
Regards,
Dr.Sandip Kabra
Mouth breathing is not an absolute contraindication.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome to HCM,
I have read your query and understand the concern,
Mouth breathing is not an absolute contraindication to take oral temperature.
Usually,nurses take oral temperature unless and until the treating physician has instructed them to take temperature by alternative methods means by Axillary or Rectally.
When Oral temperature is being taken,one should ensure that the patient should keep his mouth closed and he/she is able to breath through his/her nose for 1 minute.
However,if there is some contraindications to take oral temperature then it can be taken by Axillary method (under arm). There is no issue with it.
Hope this helps.
Regards,
Dr.Sandip Kabra
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Nagamani Ng
Answered by
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