What is body temperature?Body temperature is a measure of how well your body can make and get rid of heat. You can take your temperature by using a thermometer. There are specific types to use in different parts of the body. Most people have an average temperature of about 37°C (98.6°F). But "normal" varies from person to person. Your temperature also changes during the day. It's likely to be lowest in the early morning. And it's probably highest in the early evening. In most adults, an oral temperature above 38°C (100.4°F), or a rectal or ear temperature above 38.3°C (101°F), is considered a fever. How do you take your temperature by mouth?Before you take a temperature, read the instructions for how to use your type of thermometer. Oral (by mouth) is the most common method of taking a temperature. For you to get an accurate reading, you must be able to breathe through your nose. If you can't, then use the rectum, ear, or armpit to take your temperature.
How do you take your armpit temperature?
How do you take your ear temperature?
How do you take your forehead temperature?Forehead thermometers aren't as accurate as electronic and ear ones.
Where can you learn more?Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd Enter N541 in the search box to learn more about "Learning About Taking Your Temperature". See the fever guide on the last page of this Helping Hand to know what is recommended for your child. Kinds of Thermometers
Each thermometer looks different. Know which kind you are using. Ways to Take a Temperature
How to Take a TemperatureChildren move around. You may need to hold the thermometer and hold your child at the same time to get a correct temperature. For safety, never leave a child alone while you are using a thermometer. If using a glass thermometer (not recommended), it may take a little longer to get a correct temperature. Remember: You are placing a piece of glass in your child's body. Never leave your child alone while taking his temperature. Rectal Temperature
Oral Temperature
Tympanic Temperature
Axillary Temperature
Kinds of Glass Thermometers (Not Recommended)Glass mercury thermometers are no longer recommended and can be dangerous. There are serious health risks if a glass mercury thermometer breaks. Mercury is toxic if inhaled or if the liquid touches the skin. There are two kinds of glass thermometers, one with mercury and one without mercury.
How to Read a Glass Thermometer
Care of the Thermometer
When to Call the DoctorMost doctors agree that a temperature over 101°F is a fever. However, you may not need to call a doctor every time your child has a fever. Typically, temperatures lower than 101°F do not need to be treated unless your child is uncomfortable. For information on fever and treatment, including medicines, see Helping Hand HH-I-105, Fever. Call your child’s doctor right away if your child has a fever AND:
The chart on the next page will help guide you to know when to call your child’s health provider. If you call, be sure to state which method you used to take the temperature.
Temperature- Digital and Glass Thermometers (PDF) HH-II-189 4/11 Revised 2/17 Copyright 1975 Nationwide Children’s Hospital |