How to Use a Baby Thermometer

There are two ways to take a baby's temperature: axillary, or under the arm, and rectal, or in the anus.

Things You'll Need

• Digital Thermometers
• Thermometers

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Instructions

Axillary

• 1

  Use either a rectal or oral thermometer to take an axillary temperature.

• 2

  Shake down the thermometer until it reads below 95.9 degrees, if you're using the glass-mercury type, or turn on the thermometer, if you're using the digital type.

• 3

  Insert the thermometer into the armpit and hold down the baby's arm so that the end of the thermometer is completely surrounded by skin.

• 4

  Leave the thermometer in place for 2 to 3 minutes if using the glass-mercury type. For the digital type, wait until the thermometer signals that the process is complete.

• 5

  Read the thermometer where the line of mercury ends or, if using a digital thermometer, read the display.

Rectal

• 6

  Use a rectal thermometer. Never use an oral thermometer to take a rectal temperature.

• 7

  Shake down the thermometer until it reads below 95.9 degrees, if you're using the glass-mercury type, or turn on the thermometer if you're using the digital type.

• 8

  Coat the end of the thermometer with petroleum jelly or another lubricant.

• 9

  Insert it about 1 inch into the anus, or until the probe is completely covered.

• 10

  Hold for 2 to 3 minutes or, if using a digital thermometer, wait until it signals that it is done. Try to keep the baby still.

• 11

  Read the thermometer where the line of mercury ends or, if using a digital thermometer, read the display.