What should be done first when using a temporal artery thermostat?

When using a temporal artery thermometer, the first step is to remove the protective cap. This cap is designed to protect the sensor of the thermometer from dust and debris, ensuring accurate temperature readings. If the cap is not removed, it can obstruct proper functioning of the device and lead to incorrect temperature measurements.

Once the protective cap is removed, the next steps would involve positioning the thermometer properly against the forehead, preparing the device for scanning, and then pressing the scan button to obtain a reading. Each of these subsequent steps relies on the initial action of removing the cap to guarantee that the device operates effectively.