Final answer:
To measure oral temperature correctly, place the thermometer under the tongue. Digital thermometers under the tongue are preferred for their speed and accuracy, and proper placement is key for reliable readings.
Step-by-step explanation:
When taking an oral temperature, it is important to place the thermometer under the tongue. This is the standard procedure for measuring body temperature orally, which provides a quick and relatively accurate representation of the body's internal temperature.
Oral temperature readings are usually taken with a standard medical thermometer, which can be a digital or an alcohol thermometer. Digital thermometers may be preferred due to their quick readout and increased accuracy compared to alcohol thermometers. For measuring oral temperature, the thermometer should be placed under the tongue and the mouth closed around it, ensuring that the sensor is in contact with tissue and not air.
Positioning the thermometer correctly is crucial, as improper placement can lead to inaccurate readings. It should not be placed under the arm, as the armpit area can give lower temperature readings, nor should it be placed in the rectum when the intention is to measure oral temperature. It is also unnecessary to use lubricant on the thermometer when taking an oral temperature measurement.