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