Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

What color-coded thermometer is commonly used for oral temperature readings?

1. Red or orange

2. Green or blue

3. Black or white

4. White or yellow

The correct answer is: Green or blue

The color-coded thermometer commonly used for oral temperature readings is typically identified by green or blue. This color-coding helps distinguish it from thermometers designed for other uses, such as rectal or axillary (underarm) measurements. Using a thermometer designated for oral readings is important for accuracy and infection control; it helps ensure that the thermometer is suitable for that specific method and avoids cross-contamination. For example, red or orange thermometers are often designated for rectal use, which measures internal body temperature and is designed differently to account for the alternative measurement site. Similarly, other color combinations like black or white, or white or yellow, do not specifically indicate oral thermometers and may correspond to different bodily measurement sites or styles not typically used for oral temperature checks. Familiarity with these color codes is vital for nursing assistants to ensure accurate measurements and patient safety.