| 
For the diagnosis of certain ailments, a rectal exam may be done.
Suppositories may be inserted into the rectum as a route of administration
for medicine.
Body temperature can also be taken in the rectum. Rectal temperature
can be taken by inserting a mercury temp for 2-3 minutes, or
a digital temp until it "beeps", not more than an inch
into the rectum via the anus. Due to recent concerns related to mercury
poisoning, the use of mercury temps is now discouraged. Normal
rectal temperature generally ranges from 97.6 degrees Fahrenheit to
100.4 degrees Fahrenheit and is roughly one degree above oral (mouth)
temperature and roughly two degrees above axillary (armpit) temperature.
On average, the rectal temperature is 0.7 degrees higher than oral temperature.
|