Oral temperatures should not be measured in patients with which of the following conditions?

Oral temperatures should not be measured in patients with hemiplegia because this condition often affects the normal functioning of one side of the body, which could impact the patient's ability to safely and effectively hold a thermometer in their mouth. Additionally, individuals with hemiplegia may have impaired sensation and motor function, making it possible for them to unintentionally bite down hard on the thermometer or have difficulty keeping it still, which can lead to inaccurate readings or even injuries.

In contrast, taking an oral temperature in patients with respiratory distress, a common cold, or mild dehydration might still be permissible as these conditions do not necessarily hinder the individual’s ability to perform the task safely. However, caution is always advised in such cases, but the specific concerns regarding hemiplegia make it the most critical condition where oral temperature measurement should be avoided.