How to Take a Temperature

There are a few methods you can use to take your child’s temperature. Generally speaking, the method of choice should be age appropriate. Whichever method you use, be sure you take the temperature correctly to get an accurate reading.

• Newborn to 3 months. Axillary (under the arm or in the armpit) temperatures are appropriate for this age. If your child’s temperature is over 99 degrees after taking it under the arm, take it rectally.
• 3 months to 4 years. It is usually recommended to take the temperature by ear or rectum in this age group. Young children have a hard time holding a thermometer in their mouth at this age.
• 5 years and older. Usually by this age children can comfortably hold a thermometer in their mouth. Once they are able to do this, oral temperatures are preferable.

Taking an Axillary Temperature

Axillary temperatures are not as accurate as oral or rectal temperatures. There are times, however, when it is acceptable and necessary to take an axillary temperature.

1. If using a digital thermometer, turn it on. If using a glass thermometer shake it down until the mercury is below 96 degrees.
2. Place the thermometer snuggly in the center of the armpit. Be sure the skin is free and clear of clothing.
3. Gently place the child’s arm across the chest and hold in position until the thermometer beeps.

Taking an Oral Temperature

Oral temperatures are the preferred method for children who are able to hold a thermometer in their mouth. Never take a temperature right after a bath. Wait at least fifteen minutes after the child has had liquids to drink before taking an oral temperature.

1. Sit your child comfortably in your lap. Never leave a child alone while taking his temperature.
2. Place the thermometer under the child’s tongue and have him close his lips around it.
3. Sometimes it is difficult for a child to control his bite when taking an oral temperature. If the child continually bites down on the thermometer, a rectal temperature may be more appropriate.
4. Wait for the thermometer to beep and note the temperature.

Taking a Tympanic (Ear) Temperature

1. Hold the child comfortably in your lap.
2. Gently pull the ear back and then down.
3. Place the tympanic thermometer in the ear opening and push the “on” button.
4. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Taking a Rectal (in the bottom) Temperature

1. A rectal temperature can be taken in a few different positions. Lying the child on his back, holding the child against you (if you have a second person to help), or putting them in a knee to chest position with face down all work well. Infants do well lying across the mothers lap. Many times, depending on the age of the child, a second person will be needed to help take the temperature because kids hate to have their little bottoms messed with, especially when they don’t feel well.
2. Lubricate the thermometer with KY Jelly or any water soluble lubricant. Put about an inch of jelly (from the tip to about an inch up) on the thermometer.
3. Insert the thermometer in the rectum (anus) about a half to one inch.
4. Never let go of a thermometer that is in your child’s rectum.
5. Hold your child firmly.
6. Remove the thermometer gently when it beeps.