When you think your child feels warmer than normal, you may decide that it is time to reach for the thermometer. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using a digital thermometer to take your child's temperature. Mercury thermometers, which were commonly used in the past, aren't considered safe to use anymore. Thermometer strips that are placed on the forehead and pacifier thermometers aren't accurate and shouldn't be used, states the Nemours Foundation. A rectal reading is appropriate for newborns to children 5 years old. An axillary, or underarm reading, is appropriate for children 3 months and older. An oral reading is appropriate for children 4 years old and older.
Take a Rectal Reading
Step 1
Apply petroleum jelly to the tip of the thermometer.
Step 2
Lay your child flat on her back with her knees bent toward her chest. Put your non-dominant hand on her thighs to keep her legs bent.
Step 3
Unfasten the diaper. If you have a little boy, cover his penis with a towel or with another diaper to avoid an accident.
Step 4
Press the button to turn the thermometer on.
Step 5
Insert the thermometer gently into the rectum ½ to 1 inch. If you feel any resistance, don't push it in any farther.
Step 6
Leave the thermometer in place in place until it beeps to signal the end of the reading.
Step 7
Remove the thermometer and check the reading.
Take an Axillary Reading
Step 1
Press the button to turn the thermometer on.
Step 2
Place the tip of the thermometer into the center of the armpit. Make sure no clothing is between the thermometer and the skin.
Step 3
Hold the child's arm by her side until the thermometer beeps.
Step 4
Remove the thermometer and check the reading.
Take an Oral Reading
Step 1
Wait 15 minutes after the child eats or drinks before taking an oral reading, warns MayoClinic.com, for an accurate reading.
Step 2
Push the button to turn the thermometer on.
Step 3
Place the thermometer under the child's tongue near the back of the mouth and slightly off to one side toward the teeth.
Step 4
Instruct the child to close his mouth and keep it closed until the thermometer beeps.
Step 5
Remove the thermometer and check the reading.
Tips and Warnings
- A reading over 100.4 degrees F in a child 3 months or younger should be reported to the doctor, notes MayoClinic.com. For all other children, a fever over 102 degrees F should be reported if the child seems uncomfortable, lethargic or irritable. Clean the thermometer after each use with warm, soapy water if you don't use thermometer covers.
- If you use a thermometer to take the child's temperature rectally, label it as a rectal thermometer so it isn't used for an oral reading, states the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Things You'll Need
- Petroleum jelly
- Digital thermometer
