What is the normal oral temperature range?

What is the normal oral temperature range?

• A. 97.6 to 99.6
• B. 98.6 to 100.6
• C. 96.8 to 98.6
• D. 99.0 to 101.0

Answer: (A)

Oral temperature in adults is normally around 97.6°F to 99.6°F. This range reflects natural individual differences and daily fluctuations, with a typical average near 98.6°F. In practice, you’ll get an accurate reading by using proper technique: place the thermometer under the tongue, keep the lips closed around it, and wait for the device to signal the reading. To ensure accuracy, avoid eating, drinking hot or cold items, or smoking for about 15 minutes before taking the measurement. Readings above 99.6°F can indicate fever or infection (under the right clinical context), while readings well below 97.6°F may be due to environmental factors, poor technique, or other issues.

Oral temperature in adults is normally around 97.6°F to 99.6°F. This range reflects natural individual differences and daily fluctuations, with a typical average near 98.6°F. In practice, you’ll get an accurate reading by using proper technique: place the thermometer under the tongue, keep the lips closed around it, and wait for the device to signal the reading. To ensure accuracy, avoid eating, drinking hot or cold items, or smoking for about 15 minutes before taking the measurement. Readings above 99.6°F can indicate fever or infection (under the right clinical context), while readings well below 97.6°F may be due to environmental factors, poor technique, or other issues.