During the COVID-19 pandemic, parents may need to check their children for symptoms, including fever, before they go to school, child care, or sports activities. Feeling your child's forehead is quick but not very exact. Most modern digital thermometers work fast and are easy to use. Show
What type of thermometer is best for my child?It is best to use a digital thermometer to check your child's temperature. Do NOT use a mercury thermometer. These thin glass devices filled with the silvery metal can break and release toxic levels of mercury fumes. In fact, if you have a mercury thermometer at home, you should remove it. What is a normal temperature, and what is considered a fever?A “normal" temperature varies with the child's age, activity, and time of day. A fever usually is a temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher. This is a sign that the body is fighting an illness. Your child's temperature, age and other signs of illness will help your doctor recommend treatment that is best for your child.
What are some different types of digital thermometers?There are different types of digital thermometers that measure temperature at different areas of the body. Rectal (in the anus) temperatures are the most accurate. Forehead temperatures are the next most accurate. Oral and ear temperatures are accurate if done properly. Armpit temperatures are the least accurate, but you can use this method to screen a child of any age. Whatever approach is used, follow the cleaning instructions on the package before use. Here are 3 types of digital thermometers:Digital multi-use thermometer
Temporal artery
Tympanic
How to Use a Digital ThermometerTo get the right thermometer reading, it is important to always follow the instructions that came with the device. Rectal temperatureTaking a rectal temperature gives the best reading, especially for infants under 3 months of age. Here is how to take a rectal temperature:
Oral temperatureOnce your child is 4 years old, you can take a temperature by mouth. Here is how to take an oral temperature:
Forehead temperatureTemporal artery (forehead) thermometers can be used on children of any age. Here is how to take a forehead temperature:
Ear temperatureTympanic (ear) thermometers can be used on children 6 months of age and older, as young infants have narrow ear canals. Here is how to take an ear temperature:
RememberFever is just one sign of illness, but an important one. Talk with your child's pediatrician if you have any questions about fever and taking your child's temperature. More Information
*Digital thermometer drawings by Anthony Alex LeTourneau. The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances. Which thermometer provides least accurate temperature reading?Contact thermometers
Rectal temperatures provide the most-accurate readings for infants, especially those 3 months or younger, as well as children up to age 3. Temperatures taken from the armpit are usually the least accurate.
What is more accurate ear or mouth thermometer?An ear (tympanic) temperature is 0.3°C (0.5°F) to 0.6°C (1°F) higher than an oral temperature. An armpit (axillary) temperature is usually 0.3°C (0.5°F) to 0.6°C (1°F) lower than an oral temperature. A forehead (temporal) scanner is usually 0.3°C (0.5°F) to 0.6°C (1°F) lower than an oral temperature.
Which method of temperature measurement is the most reliable?Rectal temperatures are considered most accurate indication of the body's temperature. Oral and axillary temperature readings are about ½° to 1°F (. 3°C to .
Which time of day would we have the lowest temperature reading?The nadir in body temperature usually occurs at about 4 a.m. and the peak at about 6 p.m. This circadian rhythm is quite constant for an individual and is not disturbed by periods of fever or hypothermia.
|