Home › CNA Practice Tests › Basic Nursing Skills Questions › Question 9
Why should an oral temperature NOT be taken on an unconscious resident?
- A.The resident could bite the probe or inhale fluid
- B.The mouth becomes too dry to hold a probe
- C.Oral readings are always low when sleeping
- D.Unconscious residents never develop a fever
Correct answer
A. The resident could bite the probe or inhale fluid
Why
An unconscious person cannot hold a thermometer safely, follow directions, or protect the airway. Using another nurse-approved site avoids injury from biting the probe or aspirating.
Content outline: Basic Nursing Skills - Vital Signs: Temperature · From the Basic Nursing Skills practice bank (BN-009).