CNA Certification (Written Exam)Basic Nursing SkillsEasy
A nurse aide takes a resident's oral temperature and obtains a reading of 98.6°F. How should this finding be interpreted?
- AThis reading is invalid because oral temperatures are never accurate
- BThis is above normal and should be reported immediately
- CThis is below normal and indicates hypothermia
- DThis is within the normal range for oral temperature
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. This is within the normal range for oral temperature
Normal oral body temperature averages 98.6°F (37°C), with an acceptable range of about 97.6°F to 99.6°F. This reading falls within the normal expected range and requires no special action beyond routine documentation.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Oral temperatures are a standard, accurate measurement method when taken correctly.
- B. 98.6°F is the average normal temperature, not elevated.
- C. Hypothermia is typically below 95°F, far lower than this reading.
Normal Oral Temperature
The average normal oral body temperature is 98.6°F (37°C), with a normal range of roughly 97.6°F–99.6°F.
- Average oral temp = 98.6°F/37°C
- Normal range approx 97.6°F-99.6°F
- Rectal temps run about 1°F higher; axillary about 1°F lower
Memory trick: '98.6 is the magic number' for oral temps.