How to Insert Rectal Thermometers

Digital thermometers provide accurate results.

Getting a child's temperature might stress both you and your child, especially when done rectally. You may wonder how to get the job accomplished without causing further discomfort to your child. Avoid using mercury thermometers, since they can break, according to Mayo Clinic. A digital thermometer has heat sensors, which provides a more accurate temperature. Though you may feel nervous to attempt a rectal thermometer reading, simple steps can make the procedure easier for you and your child.

Things You'll Need

• Alcohol pads
• Digital thermometer
• Petroleum jelly

Instructions

1. Wipe the end of your thermometer with an alcohol pad. Lightly coat the end of your thermometer with a dime-sized amount of petroleum jelly.

2. Place your child on her tummy. Place the thermometer 1/2 inch into her rectum. If you feel resistance from the thermometer, stop pushing the thermometer in. Tell your child to lie still during the temperature reading.

3. Hold the thermometer gently in place until the thermometer beeps. Avoid letting go of the thermometer, since squirming from your child can move the thermometer deeper into his rectum. This can cause injury.

4. Read the thermometer once it beeps. Sterilize your thermometer with an alcohol pad after your reading.

Tips & Warnings

• Average temperatures for rectal readings range between 97 degrees and 100 degrees F, according to Drugs.com.

• Take your child to a doctor if he has a temperature above 100.4 degrees for rectal readings in babies younger than 3 months and at 102 degrees or higher in children over 3 months.

• Never force a thermometer into your child's rectum.

• If your newborn has a reading below 97 degrees F, seek immediate medical attention.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Infant and Toddler Health
• Drugs: Taking a Rectal Temperature

Resources

• Mayo Clinic: Fever