- Knowledgebase: Fever Questions
- Answers to Questions about fevers.
- 6. What type of thermometer is the best? - Top
- There are several types of thermometers available now. All experts agree a glass thermometer, used rectally (in the anus) or orally (in the mouth) is the "gold standard".
However, it may not be that important exactly how high the fever is. Under 2 months of age, we will want to know as accurately as possible how high the fever is, so ALWAYS use a GLASS thermometer for INFANTS less than 2 months of age, and use it RECTALLY.
For older infants and children it is less important how high the fever is, and so except in certain situations any of the following methods are also ok:
Glass Thermometer in the armpit (axilla): This method can be very inaccurate. It is good enough to tell you simply whether an older child has a fever or not, but should NOT be relied upon to give an accurate temperature.
Digital Thermometer (designed for insertion orally or rectally): These should be very accurate. Make sure the batteries are kept fresh.
Digital Ear Thermometer: These are supposed to be very accurate, but in the office I have found them to vary a lot, especially when the batteries are low. (not for less than 2 months of age)
Forehead or other adhesive thermometers: These are accurate enough to give you a general Idea of your child's temperature (not for less than 2 months of age)
Pacifier thermometers: These are accurate enough to give you a general Idea of your child's temperature (not for less than 2 months of age)
Remember, it is not how high the fever is- it is how sick the child looks that is important. - Updated: March 5, 2001
-
[e-Mail me the Knowledgebase]- [Search
our Knowledgebase] - [Question Not Answered?]
|
