Final answer:
An oral temperature is typically 0.5 to 1.0 degrees F lower than a rectal temperature. For a rectal temperature of 104.2 degrees F, the oral temperature would likely be between 103.2 and 103.7 degrees F.
Step-by-step explanation:
Step-by-step explanation:
The rectal temperature of the patient is 104.2 degrees F. If the same patient's temperature was taken orally, it would typically be 0.5 to 1.0 degrees F lower because rectal temperatures are generally higher. Therefore, the oral temperature could be expected to fall somewhere between 103.2 and 103.7 degrees F. It is important to note that a fever indicated by an oral temperature above 100.4 degrees F is a sign of a medical condition such as an infection or inflammation.
The average normal body temperature is usually listed as 98.6 degrees F but can vary among individuals. Furthermore, body temperatures outside the normal range, specifically those within 75 to 111 degrees F (24 to 44 degrees C), can signal the presence of a medical issue needing attention.