A New Beginning

Taking Baby’s Temperature

HOW TO TAKE AN AXILLARY TEMPERATURE

It is important to have a baby thermometer because a low or high temperature can be a sign of illness. When you call your baby’s pediatric provider with concerns, they will ask you for your baby’s current temperature, and how the temperature was taken. ONLY DIGITAL MULTIUSE THERMOMETERS ARE RECOMMENDED FOR NEWBORNS They are the most reliable thermometers for babies and can be used rectally (in the bottom) or axillary (under the armpit). Ask your baby’s health care provider how they prefer you to take your baby’s temperature. Although a rectal temperature for children younger than 3 years is the most accurate, it can irritate or injure a baby’s rectum. Pacifier thermometers, fever strips, ear thermometers, and temporal digital thermometers are not recommended for use with newborns.

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Remove baby’s shirt.

Place the tip of the thermometer under their armpit. Make sure that clothing is out of the way and the entire tip of the thermometer is covered by skin.

Gently hold your baby’s arm down against the thermometer until it signals it is ready to be read.

HOW TO TAKE A RECTAL TEMPERATURE

Make sure your thermometer states it can be used rectally.

Place a small amount of lubricant like petroleum jelly on the end of the thermometer.

Remove your baby’s diaper.

Place your baby on a firm surface, bend and hold their legs securely to their chest.

Insert the thermometer into the rectum only far enough to cover the tip — do NOT insert too far!

Chapter Resources • American Academy of Pediatrics Healthy Children https://www.healthychildren.org • Georgia Division of Family & Children Services Safe to Sleep https://dfcs.georgia.gov/safe-sleep • Safe to Sleep Program U.S. Department of Health and Human Services https://safetosleep.nichd.nih.gov • Office on Women’s Health https://www.womenshealth.gov

Prevent your baby from moving while the thermometer is in their rectum.

7 Keep the thermometer in place until it signals it is ready to be read.

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A New Beginning