Types of Thermometers

There are several types of thermometers that can be used to take your baby’s temperature. The most common ones are digital thermometers, ear thermometers, forehead thermometers, and rectal thermometers. Make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use each type of thermometer correctly.

Normal Body Temperature for Babies

The normal body temperature for babies is around 97-100.3 degrees Fahrenheit (36.1-37.9 degrees Celsius). It’s important to know what is considered normal for your baby so that you can accurately determine if they have a fever.

When to Call the Doctor

If your baby’s temperature is above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), you should call your doctor. A fever in infants can be a sign of an infection or illness that may require medical attention.

Tips for Taking Your Baby’s Temperature

• Make sure your baby is calm and relaxed before taking their temperature.
• Choose the appropriate thermometer based on your baby’s age.
• Follow the instructions carefully to get an accurate reading.
• Don’t hesitate to call your doctor if you have any concerns about your baby’s temperature.

How do I take my child’s temperature?

For precise temperature readings, it’s recommended to use a digital thermometer, which can be purchased online or at local pharmacies and supermarkets.

To measure your child’s temperature:

1. Gently position your child on your lap and place the thermometer in their armpit.
2. Ensure the thermometer remains in place for the specified time as per the instructions.
3. Check the display for the temperature reading.

It’s important to make sure the thermometer is clean before and after each use to avoid any contamination. Additionally, ensuring that the thermometer is properly calibrated will help maintain accuracy. If you have any concerns about the accuracy of the reading, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for further guidance.

Other types of thermometer

Although other types of thermometers are available, digital thermometers are the most reliable choice for infants and young children.

Avoid using mercury thermometers as they can be hazardous if they break.

What causes a high temperature in children?

A high temperature is a sign that the body is fighting an infection. If you have concerns, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

What should I do if my baby has a high temperature?

To manage a high temperature at home, make sure to offer fluids and ensure your child stays hydrated.

For quick and easy temperature readings, it is recommended to use a digital thermometer following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Consult the provided chart to determine the most suitable method based on your child’s age.

How to take your child’s rectal temperature (for children younger than 5 years old):

For accurate results, consider using a rectal thermometer if you feel comfortable doing so and under proper guidance.

Follow the outlined steps for correct usage.

How to take your child’s tympanic/ear temperature (for children ages 2 and older):

To take ear temperature readings accurately with a digital thermometer, it is essential to carefully follow the provided instructions.

Ensure that the instructions are meticulously followed for precise measurements.

How to take your child’s oral temperature (for children ages 5 and older):

Get an accurate temperature reading by placing the thermometer under the tongue following the provided steps.

Wait for some time after consuming hot or cold drinks before taking the measurement to ensure accuracy.

How to take your child’s under the arm temperature (for children of any age):

Place the thermometer in the armpit correctly for an accurate temperature reading, as per the provided steps.

Contact your physician as soon as possible if your child:

• Consult a healthcare provider if:
• Your infant is under 6 months and has a fever.
• The fever exceeds 40°C (104°F) and the child is over 3 months old.
• The fever persists for more than 72 hours or is accompanied by severe symptoms.

It is recommended to seek professional advice before making any health-related decisions.

Fever is common in unwell children and typically resolves within 3 days. Medical attention should be sought for infants under 6 months with a fever.

Follow the recommended methods for accurate temperature readings based on your child’s age.

Which method should I use?

Refer to the chart to select the appropriate temperature measurement method based on your child’s age.

Temperature-taking tips

• Avoid mercury thermometers due to the risk of exposure to toxins if they break.
• Opt for a digital thermometer for safe and quick temperature measurements, suitable for both rectal and oral use.

• Avoid using the same thermometer for rectal and oral temperature readings.
• Consider using a non-contact infrared thermometer for fast readings and reduced risk of disease transmission. Note that accuracy can be affected by head coverings, sweat, environmental conditions, and forehead placement.
• Do not rely solely on fever strips for accurate temperature readings.
• If you suspect a fever, always verify with a thermometer instead of relying on touching your child’s skin.

To ensure an accurate temperature measurement for your child:

Rectum

The most reliable method is taking a rectal temperature. Follow these steps:

• Clean the thermometer and apply petroleum jelly to the tip.
• Position your baby on their back with bent knees.
• Gently insert the thermometer into the rectum about 2.5 cm.
• Read the temperature after insertion.
• Clean the thermometer after use.

It is important to note that taking a rectal temperature is most accurate for infants and young children. Always use a digital thermometer specifically designed for rectal use to ensure accurate readings.

Mouth

Oral temperature measurements are not recommended for children under 5 years due to the difficulty in holding the thermometer under the tongue. Follow these steps:

• Clean the thermometer.
• Insert the thermometer tip under the child’s tongue.
• Keep the mouth closed until the thermometer beeps.
• Read the temperature and clean the thermometer.

Armpit

The armpit method is commonly used for newborns but is less accurate than rectal readings. Follow these steps:

• Use a rectal or oral thermometer.
• Clean the thermometer.
• Place the thermometer in the center of the armpit.
• Ensure that the child’s arm is snugly against their body.
• Read the temperature after removal and clean the thermometer.

If necessary, consider a rectal measurement as the tympanic method may provide quick but potentially low readings.

• Use a clean probe tip and carefully follow the instructions.
• Gently straighten the ear canal and insert the thermometer.
• Read the temperature after insertion.

What is a normal temperature?

Temperature readings can vary based on the measurement method. Refer to this chart for normal ranges:

The severity of a fever may not always indicate the seriousness of the illness; monitor your child’s overall condition. Follow these steps to manage a fever:

What can I do if my child has a fever?

• Ensure your child is comfortable and properly hydrated.
• Adjust clothing layers for temperature control.
• Give your child fever-reducing medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as directed by a healthcare provider.
• Monitor your child’s temperature regularly and seek medical attention if the fever persists or worsens.
• Encourage your child to get plenty of rest to help their body fight off the infection.
• If your child’s fever is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or a rash, seek medical advice immediately.

What about medications?

Medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relieve fever discomfort, but they do not address the underlying cause. Administer these medications according to weight-based recommendations and avoid exceeding recommended doses. Consult a healthcare professional before giving ibuprofen to infants.

Both medications can be used together, but it is crucial to follow specific dosage instructions. Avoid using aspirin for fever treatment to prevent potential complications.

Visit healthdirect Australia for expert advice.

If your baby is under 3 months old and has a fever above 38℃, seek urgent medical assistance.

It is important to monitor your child’s fever closely and make sure they stay hydrated. Comfort measures such as lukewarm baths and lightweight clothing can help lower their body temperature. Keep them in a cool environment and provide plenty of rest.

Key facts

• Fever is a natural immune response that often accompanies infections.
• Symptoms of fever include high temperature, sweating, and chills.
• Use a thermometer to check for fever and seek medical attention for severe symptoms.
• Fevers can be caused by a variety of factors including infections, inflammation, and certain medications.
• It is important to stay hydrated and get plenty of rest when dealing with a fever.
• In some cases, over-the-counter medications may be used to reduce fever, but always consult with a healthcare professional first.

What is a fever?

Fever indicates an elevated body temperature beyond the normal range. Consider various factors that may affect temperature readings when diagnosing a fever.

• Typically, fever is diagnosed by measuring body temperature using different thermometers.
• Ensure thermometer cleanliness and adhere to usage instructions.
• When caring for a child with a fever, follow specific guidelines for managing fever in children.

What symptoms are related to a fever?

Fever is characterized by a high temperature above 38℃, accompanied by symptoms like sweating and muscle aches.

What causes a fever?

Fever often indicates the body’s effort to combat infections caused by viruses or bacteria.

Check symptoms using the Symptom Checker for medical advice.

How is the cause of a fever diagnosed?

Doctors diagnose fevers through symptom assessment and may conduct tests if necessary.

Inform your doctor of any recent travel history for an accurate diagnosis.

In addition to symptom assessment and travel history, doctors may also perform physical examinations, blood tests, urine tests, and imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans to help determine the cause of a fever. In some cases, a sample of tissue or fluid may be collected for further analysis.

It is important to communicate openly with your doctor to provide them with all necessary information for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

It is important to note that a fever is a symptom of an underlying condition and not a disease in itself. It is your body’s way of fighting off infections and other illnesses. While most fevers are harmless and go away on their own, there are certain cases where medical attention is necessary.

If you have a fever and experience any of the emergency symptoms mentioned above, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying issue that requires urgent care.

For children with a fever, especially those under 3 months old, it is important to closely monitor their symptoms. Look out for signs of dehydration, vomiting, drowsiness, and difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is best to consult a healthcare provider promptly.

Remember, prevention is key when it comes to fevers and other illnesses. Practice good hygiene, get vaccinated, and maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce your risk of getting sick. And in case you need medical assistance, don’t hesitate to use the Service Finder tool to locate healthcare services near you.

Managing a High Fever

See a Doctor if Necessary

Stay Hydrated

Ensure you drink plenty of clear, non-alcoholic fluids. Dehydration can worsen a fever and cause other health problems.

Stay Cool

Wear lightweight clothing, avoid heavy bedding, and maintain a comfortable room temperature. It’s important to keep the body cool to help reduce the fever.

Rest and refrain from strenuous activities while experiencing a fever. Allow your body to focus on fighting the infection.

Medication Use

Use pain relief medications only as needed. Make sure to follow the recommended dosage and check for any potential side effects or interactions with other medications you may be taking.

Before taking any medication, consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any medical conditions, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Understanding Fevers

Fevers are a natural response to illness. Seek medical assistance if the fever persists or if new symptoms arise.

Febrile Convulsions

Seizures due to fever in children are typically harmless. Consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Healthdirect Helpline

Contact 1800 022 222 for health advice at any time of the day.

Additional Resources

When Your Child Has a Fever

Learn more about how to manage a child with a temperature above the normal range.

Benefits of Mild Fever

A slight elevation in body temperature can actually enhance the body’s immune response against infections.

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Explore strategies for managing fevers and knowing when to seek medical assistance.

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Fever plays a beneficial role in helping the body combat various illnesses.

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Understand the occurrence of febrile seizures in children and how they are related to fever.

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Gain insights into the causes of abnormally low body temperatures and their potential effects.

Importance of Hydration During Fever

It is crucial to keep your child well hydrated during a fever to prevent dehydration and support the body’s healing process.

Treating Fevers at Home

Learn about home remedies and treatments for managing fevers, such as lukewarm baths and proper rest.

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