Wisconsin CNA State Exam Vocabulary Practice

What does tympanic temperature refer to?

1. The temperature of the armpit

2. The temperature of the nose

3. The temperature of the tongue

4. The temperature obtained by placing an electronic probe in the ear canal

The correct answer is: The temperature obtained by placing an electronic probe in the ear canal

Tympanic temperature refers specifically to the temperature obtained by placing an electronic probe in the ear canal. This method is designed to measure the core body temperature quickly and accurately, as the tympanic membrane (the eardrum) is situated close to the blood supply that affects hypothalamic temperature regulation. This makes tympanic temperature measurement both a rapid and effective way to assess a person's body temperature, particularly in clinical settings where quick readings are necessary. Other temperature measurement methods, such as measuring the temperature of the armpit (axillary), the nose, or the tongue, utilize different anatomical sites, which can yield less direct measurements of core body temperature, making them less reliable in certain situations.