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Mar 18, 2023 · This article provides step-by-step instructions for how to use a rectal thermometer. It also details what different temperatures may mean, co-occurring symptoms that warrant a call or visit to the healthcare provider, and how to treat a fever in infants and children.
- Thermometer Options
- Age Matters
- How It’S Done
There are several types you can choose from: 1. Digital thermometers— These thermometers use electronic heat sensors to record body temperature. They can be used in the rectum (rectal), mouth (oral) or armpit (axillary). Rectal temperatures provide the best readings for infants and toddlers. Armpit temperatures are typically the least accurate of t...
The best type of thermometer — or the best place to insert the thermometer, in some cases — depends on your child’s age. 1. Birth to 2 months— At this age, use a standard digital thermometer to take your baby’s rectal temperature. 2. 2 months to 4 years— In this age range, you can use a digital thermometer to take a rectal or armpit temperature. Or...
Here’s how to take a temperature using the different methods. Be sure to turn on the thermometer before you start. 1. Rectal temperature— Turn on the digital thermometer and lubricate the tip of the thermometer with petroleum jelly. Lay your child on his or her back, lift his or her thighs, and insert the lubricated thermometer 1/2 to 1 inch into t...
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Dec 19, 2023 · Rectal. A rectal temperature is the most accurate, particularly for infants age 3 months or younger. Labeling a thermometer for rectal use ensures that no one will use it for an oral...
- Nancy Lovering
Feb 21, 2024 · Last updated on Feb 21, 2024. Overview. Care. What is it? A rectal temperature (TEM-per-ah-chur) is a way of taking your child's temperature . Caregivers may want rectal temperatures taken on children less than 5 years old. A rectal temperature is taken by putting the thermometer (ther-MOM-uh-ter) gently in your child's rectum.
- Why Do I Need to Check A Rectal temperature?The rectal temperature is the most exact way to know if your child has a fever. A temperature taken in the rectum is the closest way to finding the...
- What Kind of Thermometer Is Used to Take A Rectal temperature?1. A digital thermometer is used to take a rectal temperature. It is a small hand-held device with a "window" showing your child's temperature in n...
Nov 20, 2022 · 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: belly-down across your lap or on a firm, flat surface and keep your palm along the lower back or; face-up with legs bent toward the chest with your hand against the back ...
How do you take your child's rectal temperature? A rectal thermometer is the most accurate way to take a temperature. It is recommended for children younger than age 6. Put a lubricant jelly or petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, on the tip of the thermometer. This will help you insert it easily.
A reading of 100.4°F (38°C) or above means your child has a fever. Wash the thermometer with soap and water and label it for rectal use so it won’t be used to take oral temperatures. Taking Your Child’s Temperature. Your child feels warm, but is it a fever? Now, more than never, it’s important to know.
