BAY AREA COLLEGE OF NURSING Nursing Assistant Program Module 10: Vital Signs

EQUIPMENT: thermometer (electronic tympanic thermometer) pen and paper TEMPERATURE: ORAL (98.6 degrees F or 37.0 degrees C) BEGINNING STEPS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Wash hands. Knock and pause before entering the residents room. Introduce self. Identify resident. Explain procedure. Gather equipment, if applicable. Provide for privacy. Apply gloves, if necessary.

MANUAL SKILL: Temperature Tympanic (aka Aural)

SKILL STEPS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Apply disposable probe cover to thermometer Ask the resident to turn their head so that the ear is in front of you. Gently pull back on ear to straighten the ear canal. Insert covered probe, making sure the canal opening is sealed off. Activate thermometer by pressing appropriate button. The temperature is measured within 2-3 seconds and is displayed in digital format. Eject the used probe cover into the trash without touching it. Record temperature on paper.

_________________________________________________ Do Not Reproduce. BACN Property/2010

BAY AREA COLLEGE OF NURSING Nursing Assistant Program Module 10: Vital Signs
ENDING STEPS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Clean and return equipment and supplies, if applicable. Remove gloves, if wearing. Position resident comfortably. Place call light within reach. Lower bed to safe position for the resident. Leave room neat. Wash hands. Document. Report abnormal findings to licensed nurse.

MANUAL SKILL: Temperature Tympanic (aka Aural)

_________________________________________________ Do Not Reproduce. BACN Property/2010