Question

Check all locations that a temperature is commonly taken by a health professional.

1) mouth
2) rectum
3) toes
4) armpit
5) ear
6) belly button
7) forehead

Answer 1

Temperature readings by health professionals are commonly taken from the mouth, rectum, armpit, ear, and forehead. Infrared ear thermometers are an accurate method that avoids contact with mucous membranes. Regular monitoring of body temperature is important for detecting potential health issues. The correct options are 1,2,4,5, and 7.

Step-by-step explanation:

The common locations where a health professional may take a temperature reading are the mouth, rectum, armpit, ear, and forehead.

Temperatures are not commonly taken at the toes or belly button. Infrared ear thermometers, which are more accurate than traditional alcohol thermometers, use infrared technology to measure the energy emitted by the eardrum. Measurements in the ear are quick and avoid contact with mucous membranes, reducing the risk of cross-infection.

Modern methods of temperature measurement can also use infrared thermography to detect areas of heat and cold on the body's surface, which may indicate various health conditions. Monitoring body temperature is vital, as changes in the normal body temperature of approximately 37 °C (98.6 °F) can indicate disease.