The patient requires routine temperature assessment but is confused, easily agitated, and has a history of seizures. Which route will the nurse use to obtain the patient's temperature?

A) Oral
B) Rectal
C) Axillary
D) Tympanic

The tympanic route is easily accessible, requires minimal patient repositioning, and often can be used without disturbing the patient. It also has a very rapid measurement time. Oral temperatures require patient cooperation and are not recommended for patients with a history of seizures. Rectal temperatures require positioning and may increase patient agitation. Axillary temperatures need long measurement times and continuous positioning. The patient's agitation state may not allow for long periods of attention.