How to Take an Axillary Temperature

The axillary temperature is a method used to measure body temperature by placing a thermometer under the axilla (armpit). An axillary temperature may be performed to check for a fever, which is an increase in body temperature. The normal body temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. A fever may be a sign of infection or other illness. It is possible to check axillary temperature using a mercury or digital thermometer.

Things You'll Need

• Cotton balls
• Alcohol
• Digital thermometer
• Mercury thermometer (optional)

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Instructions

Mercury Thermometer

• 1

  Clean the mercury thermometer before using. Soak a cotton ball with isopropyl or rubbing alcohol, and wipe the silver tip of the mercury thermometer.

• 2

  Shake the mercury thermometer down until the mercury level falls below 96 degrees Fahrenheit.

• 3

  Position the end of the mercury thermometer in the center of the armpit. Make sure the armpit is tucked snugly against the body. Wait five minutes before removing it from your armpit.

• 4

  Rotate the mercury thermometer under good lighting until you can see the mercury line and numbers. A normal body temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything higher indicates a fever.

• 5

  Clean the mercury thermometer with alcohol after using, and return it to its case.

Digital Thermometer

• 6

  Clean the digital thermometer before using. Soak a cotton ball with isopropyl or rubbing alcohol, and wipe the tip of the digital thermometer to remove any present germs.

• 7

  Locate the power button, and press it to turn it on. Position the end of the digital thermometer in the center of the armpit. Make sure the armpit is tucked snugly against the body. Wait until the digital thermometer beeps a few times.

• 8

  Remove the digital thermometer from the armpit after it has stopped beeping. Read the results of the temperature in the digital screen.

• 9

  Clean the digital thermometer with alcohol after using it, and then return it to its case.