How to Take a Baby's Temperature

There are several ways to take a baby's temperature. Using an ear thermometer usually is not accurate due to the difficulty in getting the measuring device properly into the ear canal, and placing a thermometer in a baby's mouth is unsafe. Thermometer strips are not accurate enough. The two most effective ways to take a baby's temperature are the rectal and axillary (armpit) methods.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Baby Thermometers
• Digital Thermometers
• Washcloths
• Antimicrobial Soap
• Petroleum Jelly
• Rectal Thermometer
• Petroleum Jelly

Axillary Method

1. Choose a digital or traditional mercury thermometer. Make sure the mercury is under 95 degrees F before taking the temperature. Make sure the digital thermometer is in the correct on mode for taking the temperature.

2. Clean and dry the baby's armpit.

3. Place the thermometer under the baby's arm and hold the arm down.

4. Hold the baby in position for 3 to 5 minutes or until the digital thermometer beeps.

5. Read the thermometer. Normal axillary temperature is 97.8 degrees F. However, a normal infant's temperature can range between 97.6 to 100 degrees F.

Rectal Method

6. Choose a digital or traditional mercury thermometer. Make sure the mercury is under 95 degrees F before taking the temperature. Make sure the digital thermometer is in the correct on mode for taking the temperature.

7. Dab petroleum jelly on the tip of the thermometer for easy and comfortable insertion.

8. Lie the baby facedown on a firm, sturdy surface.

9. Separate the buttocks and insert the thermometer gently. Only insert it until the bulb or silver tip is completely covered.

10. Hold the baby's bottom with your hand, placing the thermometer between your fingers. Stay in this position for 2 to 3 minutes or until the digital thermometer beeps.

11. Remove the thermometer gently and read. Normal rectal temperature ranges between 97.6 and 100 degrees F.

Tips & Warnings

• Have someone else hold the baby while you hold the thermometer.
• Wash the thermometer with soap and water after every use.
• Take your baby's temperature using the rectal or axillary method until age 4, or until the baby is cooperative enough to hold the thermometer securely in place under the tongue.
• Consult your pediatrician for the method she prefers for temperature taking, and ask at what temperature you should call her.

[evuser942]

on 9/23/2009 That is exactly what I wanted to know because I think you add 1 degree for underarm which would mean my baby does have a fever but not if you don't do that. He has a cold and feels feverish to the touch on his forehead.

[tdunn]

on 11/10/2008 now u told me how to take a temperture for under the arm but u forgot to tell me if i need to add or subtract to that reading am i know that i am supposed to do one of them so your information is not completly correct....