Temperature taking hints
øThe right ear reading may differ from the reading taken at the left ear. Therefore, always take the temperature in the same ear.
øThe ear must be free from obstructions or excess earwax build- up to take an accurate reading.
øExternal factors may influence ear temperatures, including when an individual has:
–been lying on one ear or the other
–had their ears covered
–been exposed to very hot or very cold temperatures, or
–been recently swimming or bathing.
In these cases, remove the individual from the situation and wait 20 minutes prior to taking a temperature.
øFor persons wearing hearing aids or ear plugs, remove the device and wait 20 minutes prior to taking a temperature.
øUse the untreated ear if prescription ear drops or other ear medications have been placed in the ear canal.
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