Temperature Measurement - Southern Health and Social Care Trust

SOUTHERN HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE TRUSTPROCEDURE FOR TEMPERATURE MEASURMENT (AXILLA) INA NEONATEStatement:The acceptable set point temperature for an axilla temperature is within the range36.5 - 37 degrees Celsius.The axilla temperature should be checked and recorded every 4-6 hours unlesscare plan indicates otherwise. If the temperature falls outside the normal rangereadings must be taken more frequently until the infants temperature hasnormalised.If an infant undergoes any change of environment or increased exposure forexample, general care activities, clinical procedure, phototherapy, new transfer tocot or incubator, they will require more frequent temperature checks to ensuretemperature remains stable.Equipment:Axilla electronic thermometerDisposable probe coverACTIONDecontaminate hands as per local policy adhering to 7step technique and 5 moments.Ensure the thermometer is in working order and is set oncorrect mode which should be illustrated on LCD screen.Place a new disposable cover over the probe.Gently place the probe into the armpit against the skinand lower arm. The probe should be parallel to thespine.During measurement the progress bar will be seen. Along beep indicates when the measurement is completeand the LCD will display the result.RATIONALETo reduce the risk of cross infectionTo reduce the risk of cross infectionThe axilla is the safest and most accurate sitefor central temperature readings in a neonateTo obtain a final reading.Remove thermometer from axilla once the reading isobtained. Eject the probe cover into medical waste bag.Probe covers are single use.Decontaminate hands as per local policy adhering to 7step technique and 5 moments.Document reading in the infants chart. Inform the nursein charge if reading falls out of expected range for thatinfant.To reduce the risk of cross infection.To ensure compliance with NMC standards forrecord keeping