What should rectal temperature be for baby

Digital Thermometers Digital thermometers give the quickest, most accurate readings, and are the only kind that doctors currently recommend. Digital thermometers are used for these temperature-taking methods: rectal in the bottom — most accurate method for children under 3 years old oral in the mouth — best for kids 4—5 years or older who can cooperate axillary under the arm — the least accurate digital thermometer, but good for a first check Other Types of Thermometers temporal artery thermometers — these measure heat waves on side of forehead and can be used in infants 3 months and older electronic ear tympanic thermometers — these measure heat waves from the eardrum and can be used in infants 6 months and older Types Not Recommended These types of thermometers aren't recommended because they're less accurate: plastic strip thermometers pacifier thermometers smartphone temperature apps Glass mercury thermometers were once common, but should not be used because of possible exposure to mercury, an environmental toxin.

Tips for Taking Temperatures by Age As any parent knows, taking a squirming child's temperature can be a challenge. First: Wash the end of the thermometer with soap and water and rinse with water.

Moisten the tip of the thermometer with a lubricant, such as petroleum jelly. Then, place your child:. Stop if you feel any resistance. Steady the thermometer between your second and third fingers as you cup your hand against your child's bottom. Soothe your child and speak quietly as you hold the thermometer in place. Wait until you hear the appropriate number of beeps or other signal that the temperature is ready to be read.

Write down the number on the screen, noting the time of day that you took the reading. Taking an oral temperature is easy in an older, cooperative child. Wait 20 to 30 minutes after your child finishes eating or drinking to take an oral temperature, and make sure there's no gum or candy in your child's mouth. Place the tip of the thermometer under the tongue and ask your child to close his or her lips around it. Remind your child not to bite down or talk, and to relax and breathe normally through the nose.

Remove your child's shirt and undershirt, and place the thermometer under an armpit it must be touching skin only, not clothing.

Rectal temperature. Turn on the digital thermometer and lubricate the tip of the thermometer with petroleum jelly. Alternatively, you can place your child on his or her belly on your lap or other firm surface. If you put your child belly down, put your hand against his or her lower back to hold the child in place.

Never try to force a rectal thermometer past any resistance. Hold the thermometer in place until the thermometer signals that it's done.

Remove the thermometer and read the number. When reporting a temperature to your child's doctor, give the reading and explain how the temperature was taken. A fever is a common sign of illness, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, fevers seem to play a key role in fighting infections. If your child is older than age 6 months and is drinking plenty of fluids, sleeping well and continuing to play, there's usually no need to treat the fever.

If you want to give your child medication to treat a fever, stick to acetaminophen Tylenol, others until age 6 months. However, for children younger than age 3 months, don't give acetaminophen until your baby has been seen by a doctor.

Never give more acetaminophen than recommended on the label for your child. Be aware that some combination over-the-counter medications might contain acetaminophen as an ingredient. Read the label carefully for proper dosage.

Don't use aspirin to treat a fever in anyone age 18 years or younger. Keep in mind that an armpit temperature might not be accurate. If you're in doubt about an armpit temperature reading, use another method to confirm the results. There is a problem with information submitted for this request. Sign up for free, and stay up-to-date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID, plus expert advice on managing your health.

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Hold the thermometer with one hand on the baby's buttocks so the thermometer will move with the baby. Use the other hand to comfort the baby and prevent moving. Slowly move the thermometer across the forehead toward the top of the baby's ear. Make sure it always touches the skin. If a baby's rectal or temporal artery temperature is Health Home Conditions and Diseases. Taking the baby's rectal temperature Oral and rectal thermometers have different shapes and one should not be substituted for the other.

The thermometer should be pointed towards the child's belly button. Never leave a baby unattended with a rectal thermometer inserted. Hold thermometer until it beeps or signals. Remove the thermometer. Wipe the bulb.