What is the most accurate method for measuring body temperature?

The rectal method is considered the most accurate way to measure body temperature. This is primarily because it provides a direct measurement of the core body temperature, which is less influenced by environmental factors compared to other methods. The rectum is close to the body's internal environment, making this method reliable for detecting fevers or other temperature variations.

In clinical settings, rectal measurements are often utilized for infants and patients who are unable to cooperate with other forms of temperature assessment. While the oral, axillary, and tympanic methods can provide useful information, they are generally more susceptible to external influences. For example, oral temperature can be affected by food or drink intake, axillary readings can vary based on skin temperature and placement, and tympanic measurements may be influenced by earwax or improper positioning. Thus, rectal temperature is preferred when precision is crucial.