A patient’s temperature increased by 2 degrees Fahrenheit. If the patient’s temperature was 37.2 °C, what is his current temperature in °F?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
To find the patient’s current temperature in Fahrenheit after a 2°F increase, we need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Convert the original temperature from Celsius to Fahrenheit
The formula for converting Celsius to Fahrenheit is:
F = (C × 9/5) + 32
Given:
- Original temperature = 37.2°C
So:
F = (37.2 × 9/5) + 32
F = (66.96) + 32
F = 98.96°F
Step 2: Add the 2°F increase
98.96°F + 2°F = 100.96°F
Final Answer:
The patient’s current temperature is approximately 100.96°F
Explanation:
Understanding temperature conversions between Celsius and Fahrenheit is important in clinical and scientific contexts because different regions use different systems. Celsius is used in most parts of the world and in scientific work, while Fahrenheit is more common in the United States for everyday temperature readings.
To solve this problem, we first converted 37.2°C to Fahrenheit using the standard conversion formula. This formula multiplies the Celsius temperature by 9/5 to account for the ratio between Celsius and Fahrenheit degree intervals. Then we add 32 to align the zero point of the Celsius scale with that of Fahrenheit.
Once we had the original temperature in Fahrenheit, we simply added the 2°F increase, as the question states that the patient’s temperature rose by that amount. This step is straightforward because we are working within the same temperature unit at that point.
This kind of conversion is useful when comparing readings taken in different units, for example, when a medical report from one country is being reviewed by healthcare professionals in another. It is also helpful in understanding the severity of a fever. A temperature of about 101°F generally indicates a mild to moderate fever that may need medical attention depending on other symptoms and patient history.
