When taking an oral temperature, where should the thermometer be placed?

The thermometer should be placed under the tongue when taking an oral temperature. This method is commonly used because it provides a reliable and accurate measurement of the body's core temperature. The sublingual area, located under the tongue, is rich in blood vessels, allowing for effective heat exchange, which results in a precise reading.

Oral temperature measurements are favored for their convenience and ease of use in many settings, particularly for individuals who are able to cooperate and keep their mouths closed during the reading. This approach is typically not used for individuals who may have difficulty maintaining the thermometer in place, such as those with certain medical conditions or cognitive impairments.

Other methods, such as placing a thermometer in the armpit, ear, or forehead, are generally used as alternatives in specific situations but do not provide the same level of accuracy as oral measurements. Each of these methods has its own appropriate context and timing, depending on the needs of the patient and the clinical setting.