Assess the axillary area, if there is sweating, dry the patient's axilla with a towel or tissue before inserting the thermometer.
Move clothing away from shoulder and arm.
Leave the thermometer in place for 7 to 10 minutes then remove it.
Cover the mercury bulb or the probe
Place the thermometer bulb in the middle of axilla and put the patient's upper arm down, with the lower arm across the chest.
To prevent the movement of the thermometer away from the right site.
Because when the bulb or the probe exposes to the air, it may measure the temperature of the environment rather than the patient's temperature.
To get the accurate reading
To expose the axillary area.
Because sweating can affect the reading.