• Oral temperature greater than 100° F (37.8° C): take orally over 5 or 6 years of age in a cooperative child.  The tip of the thermometer is held under the tongue for 5 minutes.
• Rectal temperature greater than 100.4° F (38° C): most accurate and should be used in babies under 6 months.  Lubricate the tip of the thermometer with vaseline or lubricating jelly and insert it about a half to one inch in the rectum.  Hold the child firmly on their side and leave it in for about 5 minutes.
• Axillary temperature (under the arm) greater than 99.5° F ( 37.5° C): not as accurate, but may be used to screen for a fever. Hold the tip of the thermometer in the armpit and keep the arm against the body for 5 to 7 minutes.  If borderline at 99-100° F, a rectal temperature is recommended, especially in infants less than 6 months.
• Types of thermometers
  • Digital thermometers are easy to read because they beep with a number when the final temperature is correct.
  • Glass mercury thermometers are harder to read and care must be taken to avoid breakage while the temperature is being taken.
  • Ear thermometers are easy to use and read, but are not always accurate.   They are not very reliable in children under about 6 months.

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