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A patient's tympanic temperature reads 38.5°C. What is this temperature in degrees Fahrenheit?
- A97.7°F
- B100.4°F
- C101.3°F
- D99.1°F
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 101.3°F
Using the formula F = (C × 9/5) + 32: (38.5 × 1.8) + 32 = 69.3 + 32 = 101.3°F. This confirms the patient has a fever, since normal body temperature is approximately 98.6°F (37°C).
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 97.7°F is below normal temperature and does not match the conversion.
- B. 100.4°F equals 38.0°C, not 38.5°C.
- D. 99.1°F is too low; it does not equal the correct converted value.
Celsius to Fahrenheit Conversion
A mathematical formula used to convert body temperature readings between Celsius and Fahrenheit scales.
- Formula: F = (C × 9/5) + 32
- Normal body temp: 37°C = 98.6°F
- Fever generally defined as ≥100.4°F (38°C)
Memory trick: 'Times nine-fifths, then plus thirty-two.'