Body Temperature

Temperature Measurement

Risks

There is very little risk of complications from taking a temperature.

When taking a rectal temperature, do not insert the thermometer into the rectum more than 0.5 in. (1.25 cm) to 1 in. (2.5 cm). Further insertion can be painful and may damage rectal tissues.

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC	Last Updated: March 5, 2007
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Donald Sproule, MD, CM, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine
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