Fever in an infant can be serious, especially before the age of 3 months. If your infant feels warm to the touch or seems generally ill, it is important to take his temperature with a rectal thermometer to help determine the severity of his illness. Digital thermometers are easier to read and considerably faster than mercury thermometers, which makes it less likely your baby will have the opportunity to wriggle away while you attempt to take his temperature. They are also safer than mercury thermometers, according to MayoClinic.com.
Step 1
Soak a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol and use it to clean the tip of the thermometer. Rinse the tip with cool water. Wait a minute to allow the tip to return to room temperature, and then coat the tip with petroleum jelly. This will reduce friction and make insertion easier.
Step 2
Place your baby on his back on a solid, stable surface, such as changing table or firm bed. Alternatively, you can drape him over your lap with her tummy facing down and her legs hanging over the side of your leg. You may want to lay a towel or waterproof pad beneath your baby, as taking her temperature may stimulate her to have a bowel movement.
Step 3
Turn on the thermometer and wait for the light or beep that indicates it is ready to record your baby's temperature. Separate your baby's buttocks with one hand and then gently insert the tip of the thermometer with the other. The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends inserting the tip only 1/2 inch and stopping immediately if you encounter resistance. Inserting the tip too far can perforate your baby's rectum.
Step 4
Hold the thermometer steady with one hand, and use your other hand to gently hold your baby and keep him from squirming. The thermometer may slip out if your baby squirms too much.
Step 5
Remove the thermometer when it beeps. Read your baby's temperature and write it down on a piece of paper so that you do not forget it.
Step 6
Wipe your baby to remove any petroleum jelly or stool. Replace her diaper and redress her if desired.
Step 7
Sterilize the rectal thermometer by washing it in warm soapy water and then wiping it down with rubbing alcohol. Rinse in cool water and dry thoroughly before storing.
Tips and Warnings
- Although some babies do not mind having their temperature taken, others may protest and squirm. If your infant is resistant, have another adult assist you to make the process easier and safer. A temperature greater than 100.4 F in an infant younger than 3 months or greater than 102 F in an infant of any age who seems ill requires medical attention.
- Do not use the same thermometer for taking oral and rectal temperatures. Doing so can cause infection and illness, according to MayoClinic.com.
Things You'll Need
- Digital rectal thermometer
- Cotton balls
- Rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol
- Petroleum jelly
- Waterproof pad
