As a parent, you hope that your children will always stay healthy; however, at some point you may have to deal with a feverish baby. While this isn't the way you want to see your child, a fever can actually help your child fight off germs that cause infections, notes the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Step 1
Take your baby's temperature. Taking it rectally is usually the best option. Apply a little petroleum jelly to the tip of the digital thermometer and insert the tip into the baby's rectum. Keep it there until the thermometer beeps to signal the reading is complete. Read the display to determine if your child has a fever. Most healthy children have a temperature of 97 to 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2
Look at your baby's face. A child who's running a fever will either be unusually pale or unusually flushed. If your baby has been exposed to sun or heat, this method isn't viable, as the hot environment may cause the change.
Step 3
Feel your baby's skin. Your baby will likely feel hot to the touch if she's running a fever. The back of the neck, forehead, stomach and back are good places to check. This is a good option when you can't get to a thermometer right away. A child who's running a fever may also feel clammy, because the body sweats to regulate a high temperature.
