A nurse is observing an assistive personnel (AP) take a client’s tympanic temperature. Which of the following actions should the nurse identify as an indication that the AP understands how to perform the procedure?

A.
The AP inserts the probe with a straight, forward motion.

B.
The AP positions the client facing her.

C.
The AP pulls the pinna up and back.

D.
The AP points the probe posteriorly.

 The Correct Answer is C

The correct answer is:

C. The AP pulls the pinna up and back.

Explanation: When taking a tympanic temperature in an adult, the ear canal needs to be straightened to ensure accurate placement of the probe. Pulling the pinna (the outer part of the ear) up and back helps straighten the ear canal, allowing the thermometer probe to accurately measure the temperature from the tympanic membrane.

• A. Inserting the probe with a straight, forward motion is incorrect because the ear canal is not straight, and this could lead to improper placement of the probe.
• B. Positioning the client facing the AP is not relevant to the accuracy of the procedure.
• D. Pointing the probe posteriorly is not necessary or recommended; the probe should be directed toward the eardrum after the ear canal is straightened.