How to Take a Rectal Temperature (for Parents)

How Do I Take a Rectal Temperature?

The finest approach to take a temperature in infants and younger kids is by taking a rectal temperature. Don’t fear — it is a easy and protected course of.

First:

• If your child has had a shower or has been underneath blankets or in a number of layers (or swaddled, if an toddler), wait about 20–half-hour to take the temperature. 
• Use a digital thermometer. Don’t use a glass thermometer, as these aren’t protected.
• Wash the tip of the thermometer with cleaning soap and water and rinse with water.
• Moisten the tip of the thermometer with a lubricant, comparable to petroleum jelly.

Then, place your youngster:

• belly-down throughout your lap or on a agency, flat floor and hold your palm alongside the decrease again
  or
• face-up with legs bent towards the chest together with your hand towards the again of the thighs

With your different hand:

• Insert the lubricated thermometer into the anal opening about ½ inch to 1 inch (about 1.25 to 2.5 centimeters), or till the tip of the thermometer is totally within the rectum. Stop in case you really feel any resistance.
• Steady the thermometer between your second and third fingers as you cup your hand towards your kid’s backside. Soothe your youngster and communicate quietly as you maintain the thermometer in place.

• Wait till you hear the appropriate variety of beeps or different sign that the temperature is able to be learn. Write down the quantity on the display screen, noting the time of day that you just took the studying.
• A studying of 100.4°F (38°C) or above means your youngster has a fever.
• Wash the thermometer with cleaning soap and water and label it for rectal use so it received’t be used to take oral temperatures.