Which client could safely have a temperature taken via the oral route?

Question

1. A client who is confused and disoriented secondary to a diagnosis of Alzheimer disease
2. A client who had maxillofacial surgery
3. An adult client with an elevated temperature of 102.4 °F
4. A client with a diagnosis of Bell palsy

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 3

A client with an elevated temperature can safely have his temperature measured using the oral route because oral temperatures are accurate if the client can follow directions. The confused client's temperature should not be taken orally due to the risk that he will bite the thermometer. A client who had maxillofacial surgery will have his jaw wired closed, so oral temperatures are not safely performed. A client with Bell palsy might experience extreme discomfort if the nerve in the mouth is stimulated, so the temperature should be taken via an alternative route.