How to Take Your Child's Temperature:

All kids get a fever from time to time. A fever itself causes no harm and can actually be a good thing — it's often the body's way of fighting infections. But a high fever sometimes is a sign of a problem that needs your doctor's attention.
Here's how to take your child's temperature, safely and accurately.

Digital Thermometers

Digital thermometers give the quickest, most accurate readings, and are the only kind that doctors currently recommend. Available in a variety of sizes and shapes, they're sold at most supermarkets and drugstores.
Read the manufacturer's instructions to see what the thermometer is designed for and how it signals that the reading is complete.
Usually, digital thermometers can be used for these temperature-taking methods:

• rectal (in the bottom)
• oral (in the mouth)
• axillary (under the arm)

What About Other Types of Thermometers?

These types of thermometers aren't recommended because they're less accurate:

• electronic ear thermometers
• temporal artery (forehead) thermometers
• plastic strip thermometers
• pacifier thermometers

Glass mercury thermometers were once common, but should not be used because of possible exposure to mercury, an environmental toxin.

Tips for Taking Temperatures by Age

As any parent knows, taking a squirming child's temperature can be a challenge. The best method will depend on a child's age and temperament.
Turn on the digital thermometer and clear the screen of any old readings. Digital thermometers usually have a plastic, flexible probe with a temperature sensor at the tip and an easy-to-read digital display on the other end. If your thermometer uses disposable plastic sleeves or covers, put one on according to the manufacturer's instructions. Throw away the sleeve afterward and clean the thermometer according to the manufacturer's instructions before putting it back in its case.
For babies younger than 3 months, you'll get the most reliable reading by using a digital thermometer to take a rectal temperature. Call the doctor if your infant is younger than 3 months old and has a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.
For babies between 3 months and 6 months old, a digital rectal thermometer is still the best choice.
For kids between 6 months and 4 years old, you can use a digital thermometer to take a rectal temperature, or you can also use a digital thermometer to take an axillary temperature, although this is a less accurate method.
For kids 4 years or older, you can usually use a digital thermometer to take an oral temperature if your child will cooperate. But kids who are coughing a lot or breathing through their mouths because of stuffy noses might not be able to keep their mouths closed long enough for an accurate oral reading. In these cases, you can use the rectal or axillary method (with a digital thermometer).
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