Which thermometer uses infrared scanning to determine a client's temperature?

• A. Temporal probe thermometer uses infrared scanning to determine a client's temperature.
• B. Wait 5 min after a client has consumed a hot drink to obtain an oral temperature.
• C. Place a tape or patch thermometer over a client's scapula.
• D. Tympanic thermometer reflects a client's body surface temperature.

Answer: (D)

Infrared scanning thermometers work by sensing the heat energy emitted by the body, giving a reading without needing extended contact. A tympanic thermometer has a sensor in the ear canal that detects infrared radiation from the tympanic membrane. Because the tympanic membrane’s blood supply reflects the body’s core temperature, this method provides a quick estimate of internal temperature. It’s fast and convenient and less influenced by factors that can skew surface readings. The other options don’t use infrared energy to measure temperature in the same way: waiting after a hot drink affects oral-reading accuracy, a tape or patch thermometer isn’t an infrared-scanning device, and while temporal infrared devices exist, the item described here points to the tympanic method as the infrared option.