Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Prometric Practice Exam

Where should a tympanic thermometer be placed for an accurate reading?

1. Under the tongue

2. In the armpit

3. In the ear

4. On the forehead

The correct answer is: In the ear

A tympanic thermometer is specifically designed to measure temperature through the ear canal. The correct placement in the ear allows the device to accurately detect infrared heat emitted by the eardrum, which correlates with the body's core temperature. This method is quick, minimally invasive, and generally provides reliable readings, making it a preferred choice in many clinical settings. The other options do not pertain to the functionality of a tympanic thermometer. For instance, placing a thermometer under the tongue is characteristic of oral thermometers, while armpit measurements are typically taken with a different type due to a lower expected temperature reading. Forehead thermometers measure temperature at the skin’s surface and might not reflect the body’s internal temperature accurately. These different methods each have their specific devices tailored for accuracy in those particular areas.