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Correct Answer: how was the temperature taken?
the correct follow-up question "how was the temperature taken?" is crucial in the context of telephone triage for several reasons. when a nurse is triaging a patient remotely, they lack the ability to physically assess the patient, making accurate and precise information vital for proper evaluation and advice. different methods of measuring temperature can yield different results, and each has its own level of accuracy and reliability. for instance, oral temperatures are generally reliable but can be affected if the patient has recently consumed hot or cold food or drinks. rectal temperatures are often higher and more accurate but are less commonly used due to discomfort. axillary (underarm) temperatures might be lower than the core body temperature and can sometimes be less reliable.
by asking how the temperature was taken, the nurse can determine the reliability of the reported fever. this inquiry also helps to establish whether the patient or someone else took the temperature, which can affect the accuracy of the reading. for example, improper placement of a thermometer can lead to incorrect readings. additionally, knowing the type of thermometer used—digital or mercury—is important. digital thermometers provide quick readings and are generally considered safe and accurate if used correctly, whereas mercury thermometers, though less common now, require proper technique and timing to ensure accurate readings.
understanding the method used also allows the nurse to offer specific advice or instructions on how to take a temperature accurately if re-measurement is necessary. this is especially important if the initial reading might have been influenced by external factors or incorrect usage. moreover, specific thermometer types might need specific instructions, such as shaking down a mercury thermometer or ensuring a digital thermometer has functional batteries.
lastly, this question opens the dialogue for further necessary questions related to the patient's condition—such as the duration of the fever, associated symptoms (like chills, sweating, or additional signs of infection), and any recent exposures to illnesses—which are all crucial for determining the urgency and the most appropriate care recommendations. thus, the seemingly simple question "how was the temperature taken?" sets the stage for a comprehensive assessment, ensuring the nurse can provide informed, accurate, and safe medical guidance over the phone.
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