All kids get a fever
from time to time. A fever itself usually causes no harm and can actually be a good
thing — it's often a sign that the body is fighting an infection. But a high
fever sometimes is a sign of a problem that needs your doctor's attention.
Here's how to take your child's temperature, safely and accurately.
What Types of Thermometers Are Available?
Digital Thermometers
Digital thermometers give the quickest, most accurate readings, and are the only
kind that doctors currently recommend. Available in a variety of sizes and shapes,
they're sold at most supermarkets and drugstores.
Read the manufacturer's instructions to see what the thermometer is designed for
and how it signals that the reading is complete.
Digital thermometers are used for these temperature-taking methods:
- rectal (in the bottom) — most accurate method for children
under 3 years old
- oral (in the mouth) — best for kids 4–5 years or
older who can cooperate
- axillary (under the arm) — the least accurate digital thermometer,
but good for a first check
Other Types of Thermometers
- temporal artery thermometers — these measure heat waves
on side of forehead and can be used in infants 3 months and older
- electronic ear (tympanic) thermometers — these measure
heat waves from the eardrum and can be used in infants 6 months and older
Types Not Recommended
These types of thermometers aren't recommended because they're
less accurate:
- plastic strip thermometers
- pacifier thermometers
- smartphone temperature apps
Glass mercury thermometers were once common, but should not be used because of
possible exposure to mercury, an environmental toxin.
Tips for Taking Temperatures by Age
As any parent knows, taking a squirming child's temperature can be a challenge.
The best method will depend on a child's age and temperament.
Turn on the digital thermometer and clear the screen of any old readings. Digital
thermometers usually have a plastic, flexible probe with a temperature sensor at the
tip and an easy-to-read digital display on the other end. If your thermometer uses
disposable plastic sleeves or covers, put one on according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Throw away the sleeve afterward and clean the thermometer according to the manufacturer's
instructions before putting it back in its case.
For babies younger than 3 months, you'll get the most reliable
reading by using a digital thermometer to take a rectal temperature. Call the doctor
if your infant is younger than 3 months old and has a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C)
or higher.
For babies between 3 months and 6 months old, a digital rectal
thermometer is still the best choice. A temporal artery thermometer also can be used.
For kids between 6 months and 4 years old, you can use a digital
thermometer to take a rectal temperature. You also can use an tympanic (ear) thermometer
or a digital thermometer to take an axillary (armpit) temperature, but they're less
accurate.
For kids 4 years or older, you can usually use a digital thermometer
to take an oral temperature if your child will cooperate. But kids who are coughing
a lot or breathing through their mouths because of stuffy noses might not be able
to keep their mouths closed long enough for an accurate oral reading. In these cases,
you can use the temporal, tympanic, rectal, or axillary method (with a digital thermometer).