Advanced Patient Assessment Practice Exam

What site is used to measure body temperature in comatose patients?

1. Rectal

2. Oral

3. Axillary

4. Ear

The correct answer is: Rectal

The rectal site is recognized as the most accurate for measuring body temperature in comatose patients. This method provides a close approximation of core body temperature due to the rectum's proximity to internal body structures, making it less susceptible to external influences compared to other methods. In clinical scenarios involving unconscious or unresponsive patients, the ability to obtain a reliable temperature reading is crucial for guiding treatment decisions. Rectal temperature measurements are less affected by factors such as ambient temperature or the patient's level of activity, ensuring that healthcare providers have dependable information to manage conditions like infection or hyperthermia that can occur in comatose states. In contrast, oral measurements may not be feasible due to the patient's inability to cooperate, and they can be inaccurate in the presence of respiratory assistance or if the patient has been recently exposed to cold or hot fluids. Axillary temperature readings tend to be less accurate and can reflect lower temperatures than the core body temperature, while ear (tympanic) measurements can also be influenced by factors such as cerumen or prior exposure to cold stimuli, rendering them less reliable in this specific patient population. Thus, the rectal route stands out as the best choice for accurately gauging the body temperature of comatose patients.