HealthLinkBC File #99, June 2012

How to Take a Temperature
Children and Adults

• Tips for using a digital thermometer
• How should I take a child's temperature?
• Armpit method
• Mouth method
• Ear method
• Rectal method
• How should I take an adult's temperature?
• What is a normal temperature?

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There are 4 ways to take a temperature:

• under the armpit (axillary)
• in the mouth (oral)
• in the ear (tympanic)
• in the buttocks (rectal)

Fever strips and pacifier thermometers do not give an accurate temperature. Do not use a mercury thermometer. Mercury is toxic and the thermometer could break. Speak to a pharmacist if you have any questions when buying a thermometer.

Tips for using a digital thermometer

A digital thermometer is best for taking temperatures by the armpit and mouth. Press the button to turn the thermometer on. Follow the instructions below for the specific armpit, mouth, ear or rectal methods. When you hear the beep remove the thermometer and read the temperature on the display. Clean thermometers (except ear thermometers) with cool, soapy water and rinse off before and after use.

How should I take a child's temperature?

There are 4 safe ways to take a child's temperature. Take a child's temperature by whatever means you are comfortable with.

Armpit method
The armpit (axillary) method is usually used to check for fever in newborns and young children but is not as accurate as a rectal temperature. For more accurate results use a rectal or oral thermometer.

• Place the tip of the thermometer in the centre of the armpit.
• Make sure your child's arm is tucked snugly against her body.
• Leave the thermometer in place for about 1 minute, until you hear the beep or follow the manufacturer's instructions
• Remove the thermometer and read the temperature.

Mouth method
The mouth (oral) method is not recommended for children younger than 5 years of age, because it is hard for them to hold the thermometer under their tongue for long enough.

• Carefully place the tip of the thermometer under your child's tongue.
• With your child's mouth closed, leave the thermometer in place for about 1 minute until you hear the beep, or follow the manufacturer's instructions
• Remove the thermometer and read the temperature.

Ear method
Though quick to use, the ear (tympanic) method can produce temperature readings that are too low, even when the manufacturer's directions are followed. It is not considered to be as reliable or accurate as rectal temperature taking.

• Use a clean probe tip each time, and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
• Gently tug on the ear, pulling it back. This will help straighten the ear canal, and make a clear path inside the ear to the ear drum.
• Gently insert the thermometer until the ear canal is fully sealed off.
• Squeeze and hold down the button for 1 second.
• Remove the thermometer and read the temperature.

Rectal method
This method is the most reliable way to ensure a fever is not missed for newborns and young children. Use a rectal thermometer only if you are comfortable doing so.

• Cover the silver tip with petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline).
• Place your baby on his back with his knees bent.
• Gently insert the thermometer in the rectum, about 2.5 cm (1 inch), holding it in place with your fingers.
• Leave the thermometer in place for about 1 minute until you hear the beep, or follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Remove the thermometer and read the temperature.

How should I take an adult's temperature?

Take an adult's temperature by mouth, in the ear or under the armpit. The armpit method is less accurate and is normally only used if the person is extremely drowsy or not clear mentally. Follow the same methods used for taking a child's temperature.

What is a normal temperature?

The normal temperature range varies, depending on the method you use:

Temperatures may vary throughout the day, rising as much as 1 degree in the morning and reaching a maximum during the late afternoon. Mild increases may be caused by exercising, too much clothing or bedding, taking a hot bath or being outside in hot weather.

When a child is sick with an infection, it is normal to have a fever (temperature higher than 38°C (100.4°F)). A fever is part of the normal process of fighting an infection. A fever will not hurt a child. Usually, it goes away after 3 days. For information about Febrile Seizures see HealthLinkBC File #112 Febrile Seizures (Also Known as Fever Seizures).

The degree of a fever does not always indicate how serious the illness is, but rather the child's behaviour, overall appearance and other symptoms such as headache, stiff neck, nausea, and vomiting are generally the most important factors. A fever with other symptoms may mean a more serious illness.

Adapted with the permission of Alberta Health and Wellness