FAQs
Rectal temps are the most accurate. Forehead temps are the next most accurate. Ear temps are also accurate if done properly. Temps done in the armpit are the least accurate.
What is the best way to take a newborn temperature? ›
Rectal temps are the most accurate. Forehead temps are the next most accurate. Ear temps are also accurate if done properly. Temps done in the armpit are the least accurate.
Where is the best place to take a newborn's temperature? ›
Babies younger than 3 months old: A rectal temperature is best. Babies 3 to 6 months old: A rectal temperature is best, but you can use a temporal artery or axillary method. Kids 6 months to 3 years old: A rectal temperature is best, but you can use a temporal artery, ear, or axillary method.
How do you check if a newborn has a fever? ›
For children younger than 3 years, a rectal temperature is the most accurate. Armpit (axillary). This is the least reliable but may be used for a first pass to check a child of any age with signs of illness.
Can you take newborn temp on forehead? ›
For children younger than 3 years, a rectal temperature is the most accurate. Forehead (temporal). This works for children age 3 months and older. If a child under 3 months old has signs of illness, this can be used for a first pass.
What temperature causes SIDS? ›
Overheating is linked to SIDS, so it's important that you don't bundle your baby too tightly in the winter. Try to keep their room cool in the months when the temperature outside is higher than 70 degrees Fahrenheit. There's some evidence that suggests that high environmental temperatures are also linked to SIDS.
What is a normal temperature for a newborn? ›
A newborn's temperature should be between 96.8°F and 99.5°F (36°C and 37.5°C). If they are below that range, the baby's temperature is considered too cold (hypothermic); above that number is too hot (hyperthermic).
Where do you put a thermometer for a baby? ›
They include:
- Rectal. For children younger than 3 years, a rectal temperature is the most accurate.
- Forehead (temporal). This works for children age 3 months and older. ...
- Ear (tympanic). Ear temperatures are accurate after 6 months of age, but not before.
- Armpit (axillary). ...
- Mouth (oral).
SIDS is less common after 8 months of age, but parents and caregivers should continue to follow safe sleep practices to reduce the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related causes of infant death until baby's first birthday. More than 90% of all SIDS deaths occur before 6 months of age.
Where do you put a temperature probe on a baby? ›
Practice guidelines
- Attach the probe to mid-epigastrium, halfway between the xiphoid and the umbilicus.
- If the infant is prone, attach the probe to the skin over either flank (not between the scapulae)
- The probe should not be placed in the axilla.
Also, contact your child's provider or go to the emergency room if your child: Is younger than age 3 months and has a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Is 3 to 12 months old and has a fever of 102.2°F (39°C) or higher. Is under age 2 and has a fever that lasts longer than 48 hours.
How do I know if my newborn has a fever without a thermometer? ›
Your baby may have a high temperature if they:
- feel hotter than usual to touch on their back or chest.
- feel sweaty or clammy.
- have flushed cheeks.
What causes a fever in a newborn? Fevers are common in children, but for a newborn baby, a fever can be a sign of a dangerous infection. This is why children under 2 months should be taken to an emergency department in the case of a fever of 100.4 or higher.
What is the best way to take a newborn's temperature? ›
Rectal thermometer
This is the preferred, most accurate way to take baby's temperature, and can be completed quickly during a diaper change. Be sure to have a designated (and clearly labeled!) rectal thermometer for your baby so that it so doesn't accidentally end up in another family member's mouth.
Can you use a digital thermometer on a newborn? ›
The best type of thermometer — or the best place to insert the thermometer, in some cases — depends on your child's age. Birth to 3 months. Use a regular digital thermometer to take a rectal temperature. New research suggests that a temporal artery thermometer might also provide accurate readings in newborns.
Why is my baby so hot but no fever? ›
Overexcitement: If your baby is overexcited and moving around a lot, this can increase blood circulation and cause your baby's body to become hot. Hot weather: If your baby is exposed to sunlight for a long time or if the weather has gotten hot, it's normal for your baby to become hot.
How do I know if my baby's temperature is right? ›
The best way to check on your baby's temperature is by putting your hand on the skin on their chest or the back of their neck. Don't use their hands or feet as a guide as they will always feel cooler than the rest of their body.
How accurate is an armpit 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.
Where to take baby temperature with infrared thermometer? ›
Simply point the thermometer 1-5cm away from the middle of the test person's forehead, or behind their ear and pull the readings trigger. The reading will then be displayed on the unit LCD. NOTE: The LCD will be backlit in red, yellow or green based on the recored temperature. Red = 38.1°C and above, high fever.
