I had a rectal temperature taken years back with one of the electronic units, either FILAC or IVAC very much touted for quick registering time; I believe rectally which I was getting taken was a few seconds more than oral. Initially I had it taken orally. Nurse left the room, returned shortly after and told me to take my pants off, get on my stomach to have my temperature re-checked, “ Rectally!” I complied, got on my stomach had my briefs lowered and cheeks spread.
After she had inserted the red topped probe, I waited and waited and waited. I didn’t say anything but the nurse simply stood there.
I thought that it would be about 10-20 seconds to register. It was minutes! For a electronic thermometer?
I didn’t time it, but I guess it went at least three or four minutes before she removed the probe. She noted her chart, told me to pull my underwear up and wait for the doctor.
Though I found it unusual that the probe was left in for so long, I figured they knew what was necessary.
Apparently my oral was questionable ergo temperature confirmed rectally, and after a rapid strep culture done the nurse returned with the vial of antibiotics and a rather hefty looking syring and needle which as I assumed the bent over position at the end of the examining bed, my underwear lowered slightly, felt an intense sting in my butt cheek and one hell of a burn as whatever I was getting was being put into my ass muscle. I was sore for a few days too.
It was strep, but the shot and 7 days of meds knocked it out of me.
Perhaps, the longer, the better. Either that or she wasn’t familiar with the unit.