Temp taken in butt??

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I had a fever earlier this week and when I went to get it checked out the nurse took my temperature in my butt!

I don't think I've ever had it that way but she said it was the most accurate.

It didn't really hurt but when she put it in I felt like I had to go poo really badly. And when she removed it right away she grabbed a wipe and wiped my butt once. Why do you think she wiped it?? I was too embarrassed to ask

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We NEVER take rectal temps. And our docs even think it's too invasive for pediatrics as well. I would question anyone wanting to stick anything in my rectum!!

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Specializes in Cardiac Telemetry, ED.

Rectal temps are more accurate, and many people still use this method. She probably used some lubricating jelly to insert the thermometer, and wiped around the orifice to remove any jelly.

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Specializes in Pediatric Intensive Care, Urgent Care.

sometimes it may need to be done that way. It is the most accurate from what i've heard.

Mex

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Specializes in Telemetry & Obs.

Feeling better now?

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Specializes in Telemetry & Obs.

Guess we're cheaper than $39.95, but we don't come with pics. Shucks!

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How come its the most accurate, and what do they wipe for??

truern - I am unsure what you are trying to say.

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I've seen rectal temp probes placed during trauma to monitor temps over a period of time, and (at least here) they are used on peds under 18 months because its more accurate than axilla and its hard to tell a baby to place anything under the tongue. I've never seen it used in other situations but every hospital probably has their own policy on the matter. Yes, its pretty invasive but it gets the job done.

Its most accurate because it will read your "core" temperature instead of a peripheral temp. Maybe it was used because you just drank a hot coffee or a cold cup of water? These things will drastically alter the reading obtained from your mouth.

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Specializes in Cardiac Telemetry, ED.
How come its the most accurate, and what do they wipe for??

truern - I am unsure what you are trying to say.

I told you why she wiped. Your question has been asked and answered.

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Specializes in LTC, assisted living, med-surg, psych.

I think we're done here. There really isn't anything more to add---a question has been asked and answered, and the OP has his information. 'Nuff said.

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Specializes in Vents, Telemetry, Home Care, Home infusion.

google is a wonder vehicle to search for health infomration

indications for rectal temperature: taking vital signs

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