What is the equivalent Celsius temperature of a normal oral temperature of 98.6°F?

To convert a temperature from Fahrenheit to Celsius, the formula used is ( C = \frac{(F - 32) \times 5}{9} ). In this case, substituting 98.6°F into the formula gives:

1. Subtract 32 from 98.6:

( 98.6 - 32 = 66.6 )

2. Multiply the result by 5:

( 66.6 \times 5 = 333.0 )

3. Divide by 9 to find the Celsius equivalent:

( \frac{333.0}{9} = 37.0 )

This calculation shows that the equivalent Celsius temperature of a normal oral temperature of 98.6°F is indeed 37.0°C. This temperature is recognized as the standard average body temperature, indicating that it falls within the normal range for healthy adults. Knowing this conversion is crucial for medical assistants, as they often need to interpret and convert temperatures accurately to provide appropriate patient care.