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Thermometer basics: Taking your child's temperature
Accuracy varies
Rectal temperatures are the most accurate, especially for young children. Temperatures measured by mouth and by ear also are accurate, if done properly. Armpit temperatures and temperatures measured with a pacifier thermometer are the least accurate.
Whatever the method, make sure you know exactly how to use your thermometer. Read the instructions that came with your thermometer. After each use, clean the thermometer with rubbing alcohol or soap and lukewarm water. For safety — and to make sure the thermometer stays in place — never leave your child unattended while you're taking his or her temperature.
When to seek medical advice
A fever is a common sign of illness, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, fevers seem to play a key role in fighting infections. If your child is drinking plenty of fluids, sleeping well and continuing to play, there's usually no reason to treat a fever.
If you want to give your child medication to treat a fever, stick to acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) until age 6 months. If your child is age 6 months or older, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) is OK, too. Read the label carefully for proper dosage. Don't give aspirin to anyone age 18 or younger.
In general, contact your child's doctor if your child:
- Is younger than age 3 months and has a rectal temperature of 100.4 F (38 C) or higher
- Is older than age 3 months, has a temperature up to 102 F (38.9 C) and seems unusually irritable, lethargic or uncomfortable
- Is older than age 3 months and has a temperature of 102 F (38.9 C) or higher that doesn't respond to over-the-counter medication
When reporting a temperature to your child's doctor, give the actual reading and state how the temperature was taken. Don't add or subtract numbers from the reading depending on where the thermometer was placed.
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