CHILDREN’S FEVER: A MATTER OF DEGREE
At any given moment, different parts of the body are at different temperatures. Moreover, normal temperatures vary as much as one or two degrees Centigrade over the course of a day even when a child is healthy. A rectal temperature of 37.7 °C or less, an oral temperature of 37.7°C or below, and an armpit temperature, though the least accurate, of 36.7°C or less are all considered normal.
Despite these variations, all thermometers are marked to indicate 37°C as normal. A rectal thermometer differs from an oral one only in having a more rugged bulb. (The most practical instrument for home use is a stubby bulb thermometer, which can be used to take a child’s temperature in any of the preferred ways.)
For the most reliable readings at any age, the rectal thermometer is recommended, although it takes a little longer for the temperature to register.
No one can accurately estimate the degree of a fever by touch. If your child feels warm or appears ill, you must use a thermometer to register the accurate temperature that you and your doctor need to know in order to treat the child.
Before using the thermometer, shake it down to be certain the mercury column is below 37°C and the bulb is intact. Then spread the child’s buttocks with the thumb and forefinger of one hand so the anal opening is clearly visible. Lubricate the bulb with petroleum jelly and insert it gently into the center of the anus. The child should feel no pain or discomfort. (Only the bulb portion of the thermometer needs to be inserted for the two to three minutes required to obtain an accurate reading.)
To take a baby’s temperature, place the child face down on a solid surface and put the heel of your hand firmly on the lower back. An unwilling toddler can be firmly clasped between your thighs and bent forward over your leg so that you can take the temperature.
Although less reliable, an oral temperature reading is sufficient and can be taken in a child who is old enough to hold the bulb of the thermometer under the tongue with the mouth closed for three minutes. (If the thermometer breaks and the child accidentally swallows the mercury in the thermometer, don’t fret. Thermometers contain elemental mercury, which is a nonpoisonous and harmless form of the metal.)
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Tags: General health