CNA Certification (Written Exam)Basic Nursing SkillsHard
A resident's oral temperature is measured at 101.6°F. What should the nurse aide do?
- AGive the resident an over-the-counter fever reducer immediately
- BDocument the temperature and take no further action since it is within normal limits
- CWait 24 hours to see if the temperature changes before reporting
- DReport the elevated temperature to the nurse promptly
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Report the elevated temperature to the nurse promptly
Normal oral temperature is about 97.6-99.6°F (average 98.6°F); an oral temperature of 101.6°F indicates a fever and must be reported to the nurse promptly, as nurse aides cannot administer medications or diagnose.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Nurse aides cannot administer medications, including over-the-counter drugs.
- B. 101.6°F is above normal oral range and should not be dismissed as normal.
- C. Delaying the report could allow a fever or underlying illness to worsen.
Fever Reporting Threshold
An oral temperature above about 99.6°F is considered elevated and should be reported to the nurse right away.
- Normal oral temperature averages 98.6°F (range ~97.6-99.6°F)
- Fever indicates possible infection or illness
- Nurse aides report abnormal vitals; they do not diagnose or medicate
Memory trick: 'Above normal? Alert the nurse fast!'