When using a digital thermometer to measure a resident's temperature, which step should be performed last?

• A. Place under the tongue or in the armpit as required
• B. Wait for the beep
• C. Record temperature with time/date
• D. Clean per protocol

Answer: (D)

The main idea is the proper sequence of using a digital thermometer and then returning the device to a safe state for the next resident. After you place the thermometer correctly and wait for the device to indicate the reading is complete, you record the temperature with the date and time. The final step is cleaning the thermometer per protocol before storing it, because the device is contaminated after use and must be disinfected to prevent cross-contamination. Hand hygiene should follow cleaning, but the key point for why this is last is that sanitizing the tool closes out the process and keeps it safe for the next resident.