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Related Concept Videos

Assessing Body Temperature - Rectal01:27

Assessing Body Temperature - Rectal

8.1K
Rectal temperature measurement is considered the most precise method for assessing core body temperature and typically registers higher than oral temperature. For adults, the rectal thermometer should be inserted 1 to 1.5 inches into the rectum to obtain the most accurate reading.
Follow these steps for rectal temperature assessment:
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and don clean gloves to prevent cross-infection.
Step 2: Position the patient in a side-lying position to better visualize the rectal...
8.1K
Temperature Measurement Sites01:14

Temperature Measurement Sites

2.5K
A thermometer measures body temperature. The common sites for measuring body temperature are the oral cavity, axillary region, temporal artery, and skin surface, such as the forehead, abdomen, and axilla. True core body temperature is assessed in the rectum, tympanic membrane, pulmonary artery, esophagus, and urinary bladder.
Oral: When assessing oral temperature, the thermometer tip should be placed under the tongue in the posterior sublingual pocket. It offers accurate readings and can be...
2.5K
Assessing Body Temperature - Oral01:14

Assessing Body Temperature - Oral

1.0K
Here are the steps to accurately measure oral temperature using an electronic thermometer:
Step 1:
Start by practicing proper hand hygiene to prevent the spread of microorganisms.
Step 2:
Take the thermometer out of the charging unit, switch it on, and wait for the ready sign.
Step 3:
Gently slide the probe cover until a click is heard. This simple action prevents cross-contamination and ensures the correct placement of the probe cover.
Step 4:
Instruct the patient to open their mouth and place...
1.0K
Assessing Body Temperature - Temporal Artery01:19

Assessing Body Temperature - Temporal Artery

770
Here is a stepwise guide to assessing the body temperature at the temporal artery using a temporal artery thermometer
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and don a fresh pair of gloves to prevent cross-infection and ensure patient safety.
Step 2: Explain the procedure to the patient to establish trust. Clear communication establishes trust with the patient, ensures they understand what to expect, promotes cooperation, and enhances comfort during the procedure.  
Step 3: Assess the patient's...
770
Assessing Body Temperature - Axilla01:14

Assessing Body Temperature - Axilla

853
Procedural Guide for Assessing Axillary Body Temperature using a Digital Thermometer:
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and put on clean gloves to maintain infection control and prevent cross-contamination.
Step 2: Prepare the patient by explaining the procedure to ensure understanding and cooperation. Ensure privacy, expose the axilla, and inform the patient that minimal movement is crucial for an accurate reading.
Step 3: Adjust the patient’s clothing to expose only the axilla. It minimizes...
853
Decreased Body Temperature01:29

Decreased Body Temperature

770
A decreased body temperature can occur in patients with hypothermia and frostbite. Heat loss with extended cold exposure overpowers the body's ability to create heat, resulting in hypothermia. Core temperature readings help classify hypothermia. Mild hypothermia is temperatures between 32 °C (89.6 °F) and 35°C (95 °F) and is caused by impaired thermoregulation. Moderate hypothermia is temperatures between 28 C (82.4 °F) and 32 °C (89.6 °F) caused by...
770

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Transdermal Measurement of Glomerular Filtration Rate in Mechanically Ventilated Piglets
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Rectal temperature is a prognostic indicator in client-owned guinea pigs.

I H Levy1, N Di Girolamo2, K A Keller1

  • 1Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, 61802, USA.

The Journal of Small Animal Practice
|June 22, 2021
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Summary

Hypothermia in guinea pigs significantly increases mortality risk. Low rectal temperature upon veterinary hospital admission is a key predictor of death within seven days for these pets.

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Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Medicine
  • Animal Health
  • Exotic Pet Care

Background:

  • Client-owned guinea pigs are common exotic pets.
  • Assessing vital signs in guinea pigs is crucial for determining prognosis.
  • Limited data exists on the prognostic value of rectal temperature in guinea pigs.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between rectal temperature and mortality in guinea pigs.
  • To determine if hypothermia is a predictor of short-term mortality in guinea pigs presenting to a veterinary hospital.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective study of 201 guinea pigs from January 2016 to June 2019.
  • Rectal temperature and 7-day survival status were extracted from medical records.
  • Survival data was confirmed via client follow-up if necessary.
  • Statistical analyses included univariable, multivariable, and sensitivity analyses.

Main Results:

  • Hypothermic guinea pigs (<37.9°C) had a nearly 3-fold increased risk of mortality (RR: 2.88).
  • Each 0.55°C decrease in rectal temperature increased the odds of death by 1.6 times (OR: 1.64).
  • Sensitivity analyses confirmed these findings.

Conclusions:

  • Rectal temperature is a significant predictor of mortality in guinea pigs.
  • Measuring rectal temperature upon presentation is recommended for hospitalized guinea pigs.
  • Early identification of hypothermia can aid in risk assessment and patient management.