MemorialCare - Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care

TAKING A TEMPERATURE If your baby feels warm or seems under the weather, the first step is to take their temperature. You’ll want to do this before you call your baby’s health care provider because they will ask for this information when you call. Experts recommend that you always use a digital thermometer to take your

Not accurate for newborns • Fever strips or pacifier thermometers • Smart phone apps • Tympanic (ear) thermometers

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baby’s temperature. Look for one that can be used under the baby’s arm or in their rectum. Digital thermometers that measure temperature across their forehead are another option. Safety first The safest way to check your baby’s temperature is with a digital thermometer placed under their arm or moved across their forehead. According to the AAP, a rectal temperature offers the most accurate reading for a baby under 3 months old. Axillary (under arm) and forehead temps are not quite as accurate as a rectal but are much easier to take.

Signs & Symptoms

Call your baby’s health care provider immediately if your baby: • Has body temperature 100.4°F or higher (2 months old or younger) • Has body temperature above 104°F (any age) • Has body temperature 97.7°F or lower (any age)

How to take an axillary temperature • Remove your baby’s shirt • Place the digital sensor (tip) under their armpit • Fold their arm down to hold the thermometer in place • Wait until the thermometer signals it has finished • Remove and read the temperature on the display screen

How to take a rectal temperature • Place lubricant on the thermometer tip and your baby’s bottom • Hold your baby belly down or on their back with legs pulled up • Insert up to ½ inch for a baby under 6 months old • Can insert up to 1 inch for a baby over 6 months old • STOP if you encounter any resistance during insertion • Hold in place, remove after the beep, and read the results

How to take a forehead temperature • Read the directions for correct use • Aim or slide the sensor across the forehead • After the beep, read the results on the display screen

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Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care