Fevers are common with children when an infection is present, but will usually go away after 72 hours. Children younger than 6 months old should be taken to see a doctor if a fever is present but older children can be treated at home.

             

There are several ways to take your child's temperature:

• Rectal method (by the rectum or ‘bum’)

• Oral method (by the mouth)

• Axillary method (under the armpit)

• Temporal artery method (forehead)

• Tympanic method (in the ear)

 

• The most effective method will depend on the child’s age to get the most accurate reading.

• For children under the age of 2 the most effective method is to take a rectal temperature.

• From 2-5 years, you can get either a rectal temperature or axillary.

• Over 5 years of age the most effective method is to get an oral temperature.

 

How yo use a thermometre with the different methods:

• Rectum:

  • Clean the thermometer.

  • Remove the thermometer and read the temperature.

  • After about 1 minute, you will hear the beep.

  • Gently insert the thermometer in the rectum, about 2.5 cm (1 inch), holding it in place with your fingers.

  • Place your baby on his back with his knees bent.

  • Cover the silver tip with petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline).

  • Clean the thermometer with cool, soapy water and rinse.

• Mouth: not recommended for children under 5 as they can not hold the thermometer under their tongue long enough

  • Clean the thermometer.

  • Remove the thermometer and read the temperature.

  • With your child’s mouth closed, leave the thermometer in place for about 1 minute, until you hear the beep.

  • Carefully place the tip of the thermometer under your child’s tongue.

  • Clean the thermometer with cool, soapy water and rinse.

• Armpit: can be used to check fever in newborns and young children but not as accurate as a rectal temperature.

  • Clean the thermometer.

  • Remove the thermometer and read the temperature.

  • Leave the thermometer in place for about 1 minute, until you hear the "beep."

  • Make sure your child’s arm is tucked snugly against her body.

  • Place the tip of the thermometer in the centre of your child’s armpit.

  • Clean the thermometer with cool, soapy water and rinse.

  • Use a rectal or oral thermometer.

• Ear:

  • Remove the thermometer and read the temperature.

  • Squeeze and hold down the button for one second.

  • Gently insert the thermometer until the ear canal is fully sealed off.

  • 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.

  • Use a clean probe tip each time, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

 

Normal Temperatures

• Rectum: 36.5°C-38°C (97.9°F to 100.4°F)

• Mouth: 35.5°C to 37.5°C (95.9°F to 99.5°F)

• Armpit: 34.7°C to 37.3°C (94.5°F to 99.1°F)

• Ear: 35.8°C to 38°C (96.4°F to 100.4°F)

• It is important to remember that the degree/height of a fever does not tell you how serious the illness is rather the way your child is acting is a much better sign.

 

How to Care for your Child with a Fever

• Fit is extremely important to keep your child hydrated with plenty of fluids.

• Remove any extra unnecessary clothing or blankets, but ensure that they are still warm enough so that they are not shivering.

• Medication is not always beneficial in reducing the child’s fever but can reduce any aches and pains.

• Acetaminophen (ie Tylenol, Tempra, Panadol) or Ibuprofen (ie Advil, Motrin) are suitable to take but do not alternate doses between the two. The temperature will most likely drop for an hour and then rise again. The dose may be repeated but do not administer more than 5 doses in 24 hours.

 

Source: North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit and http://www.caringforkids.cps.ca