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‘Human Anatomy and Physiology (Practical)
17. Recording of Body Temperature
‘Aim: To demonstrate recording of body temperature.
Requirement:
Clinical thermometer.
Principle:
Body temperature is the degree of sensible heat or cold
which represents the balance between production and loss
of heat by the body.
The physical properties of water in blood help to
maintain body temperature. Normally, body temperature in
adult human is 37°C (Celsius) or 98.4°F (Fahrenheit) when
measured orally. This temperature corresponds to the
temperature of vital organs of body and is also called as
‘core or inner’ temperature. The temperature on skin of body
is called as surface temperature. The constant core
temperature of body enables it to carry on various
physiological processes required for normal functioning.
Physiological measurement of temperature is one of the first
tests observed in a person if he/she is not feeling well. This is
done by using a clinica! thermometer. The body temperature
is commonly recorded on three body locations i.e. mouth,
rectum and arm pit. When the person cannot hold the
thermometer in mouth, then arm pit or rectal temperature is
recorded.
In general, armpit temperature also called as axillary
temperature is 1°F less than oral temperature which in turn is
05°F to 1°F less than rectal temperature.
‘An elevation in body temperature [(99 to 105°F) or (37.2 to 40.5°C)] is called fever or
pyrexia which is usually due to bacterial, vial or other microbial infections.
Procedure:
Set the lowest reading in the thermometer by holding the end opposite to the mercury
bulb firmly and shaking it downwards carefully until it reads 95°F or less.
(a) Recording of Mouth Temperature:
1. Ask the subject to place the thermometer under the tongue, and close the mouth.
Instruct the subject to use the lips and not teeth to hold the thermometer tightly in
place.