To objectively confirm the presence of fever, before taking the client’s temperature, which action should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale Asking the client to describe any other related symptoms is important for a comprehensive assessment but does not objectively confirm the presence of fever. Choice B rationale Placing the dorsum of the hand on the client’s forehead is a quick and practical method to assess for fever. It provides an initial subjective assessment of the client’s temperature before taking an accurate measurement with a thermometer. Choice C rationale Using both hands to hold and palpate the client’s hands may help assess for other symptoms such as clamminess or coldness but does not objectively confirm the presence of fever. Choice D rationale Lightly pinching a fold of skin over the client’s sternum assesses skin turgor and hydration status but does not objectively confirm the presence of fever.