Body Temperature

Body temperature is a homeostatic event

Maintaining body temp is the result of a series of reactions both chemical and physical within the body and involving many different body systems
A part of the brain called the hypothalamus controls body temperature, which usually varies throughout the day from the normal temperature of 98.6F / 37C
An elevated body temperature is known as hyperthermia, while a depressed body temperature is hypothermia

Methods to Measure Body Temperature

Oral (by mouth) is the most common method of taking a temperature. For you to get an accurate reading, the person must be able to breathe through his or her nose. Place the thermometer under the tongue
Rectal is the most accurate way to measure body temp. It is recommended for babies, small children, and people who can’t hold a thermometer safely in their mouths. Applying a lubricant
Axillary temperature is taking the temperature in the armpit. It may not be as accurate as taking an oral or rectal temperature. Place the thermometer under the arm with the bulb in the center
Tympanic
Temporal temperature is taking the body temp across the forehead or the temples of the face.
- Make sure that hair is not impeding the function of the thermometer, it will give a false reading
- It is a widely used method because of its ease of use and accuracy

Trends in Temperature

Temp normally increases throughout the day; it is lower in the morning and higher by evening
In women, temp also increases in rhythm with the menstrual cycle; Before ovulation, early morning temperatures typically range from about 97 degrees to 97.5
Temp is typically lower in older patients and higher in younger patients
If a temp is sustained for up to 2 days, it may be considered abnormal

Treating a Fever

The most common treatments for fever include over-the-counter drugs collectively known as analgesics
- Ex. Tylenol, Aleve, Advil, Motrin.
- Children and teens should NOT take aspirin because it’s linked to condition called Reye’s