If your child has had a hot or cold drink, wait 30 minutes. Once your child is 4 years old, you can take a temperature by mouth. Label the rectal thermometer so it is not accidentally used in the mouth..Thermometers should be disinfected before and after use with disinfecting soap and water or disinfecting alcohol swab.Then remove and check the digital reading. Leave the thermometer in place until it beeps. Turn the thermometer on and slide it 1/2 inch (for babies less than 6 months old) to 1 inch into the anus. Another way is on the back with the legs pulled up to the chest. Place your child belly down across your lap or on a firm surface. Put a small amount of lubricant, such as petroleum jelly, on the end of the thermometer and on your child's bottom. Here is how to take a rectal temperature: Rectal temperature gives the best reading, especially for infants under 3 months of age. To always follow the instructions that came with the device. To get the right thermometer reading, it is important Cold temperatures after being outside can affect reading. It needs to be placed correctly in your child's ear canal to be accurate (see “Ear temperature,” below). Not reliable for younger babies, whose ear canals are too narrow. Measures temperature in a child's ear by reading infrared heat waves from the eardrum.Ĭan be used on children age 6 months and older. Non-contact models may help reduce the risk of passing germs.ĭirect sunlight and cold temperatures after being outside may affect reading. Check the instructions to find out how close to the forehead and other tips before using. Temperature is taken on the side and front of the forehead, depending on whether it is a non-contact or “no-touch” model. Measures infrared heat waves coming off the blood vessel that runs across the forehead just below the skin. It's important to label the thermometer "oral" or "rectal" so it isn't used in both places. Reads body temperature when the sensor located on the tip of the thermometer touches that part of the body. Oral use is not recommended until a child is age 4 or older. Measures temperature in child’s bottom (rectal), mouth (oral) or armpit (axillary). Here are 3 types of digital thermometers: Whatever approach is used, follow the cleaning instructions on the package before use. Armpit temperatures are the least accurate, but you can use this method to screen a child of any age. Oral and ear temperatures are accurate if done properly. Forehead temperatures are the next most accurate. Rectal (in the anus) temperatures are the most accurate. There are different types of digital thermometers that measure temperature at different areas of the body. What are some different types of digital thermometers? Has immune system problems, such as sickle cell disease or Sore throat, severe ear pain, an unexplained rash, or repeated vomiting or diarrhea. Has other symptoms, such as a stiff neck, severe Very hot place, such as an overheated car. Looks very ill, is unusually drowsy, or is very fussy. Is 2 months old or younger with a rectal temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, or if fever rises above 104☏ (40☌) repeatedly at any age. Call your pediatrician right away if your child: Your child's temperature, age and other signs of illness will help your doctor recommend treatment that is best for your child. This is a sign that the body is fighting an illness. Aįever usually is a temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher. What is a normal temperature, and what is considered a fever?Ī “normal" temperature varies with the child's age, activity, and time of day. In fact, if you have a mercury thermometer at home, you should These thin glass devices filled with the silvery metal can break and release It is best to use a digital thermometer to check your child's temperature. What type of thermometer is best for my child? Most modern digital thermometers work fast and are easy to use. Feeling your child's forehead is quick but not very exact. COVID-19 pandemic, parents may need to check their children for symptoms, including fever, before they go to
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