Baby Temperature

How to Take a Temperature

You can use a digital thermometer to take your child’s temperature. A normal temperature is 98.6ºF. The thermometer will “beep” when it is time to read it. There are three ways to take a child’s temperature:

• Rectal (between the buttocks)—for infants
• In the armpit—for infants and children
• In the mouth—for children 5 years and older

The Rectal Temperature

The rectal temperature is the most accurate. First dip the narrow end of a digital thermometer in petroleum jelly. Then, lay your child on your lap, with his bottom facing upwards. Hold the thermometer between your thumb and other fingers. Gently insert the bulb end into the rectal opening an inch. Only push as far as it will slide in easily. Keep the thermometer in place until you hear the “beep.”

The Armpit Temperature

The armpit temperature is a little less accurate, but it can be easier to take. Remove your child’s shirt, and insert the narrow end or bulb in the center of the armpit. Hold your child’s arm and press it to his side. Keep the thermometer in place until you hear the “beep.”

The Oral Temperature

When your child is old enough, usually around age five, to keep the thermometer under his tongue without biting down, you can take a temperature by mouth. Place the narrow end under the tongue with the mouth closed. Keep it there until you hear the “beep.”