Many new parents are scared to take their infant’s temperature rectally but taking a rectal temperature is very simple and is the most accurate way to take your baby’s temperature. Most babies, especially young infants, are not bothered by having their temperature taken rectally.
Fevers are the body’s way of fighting off infection. Most of the time they do not indicate a serious problem, but infants less than 3 months of age need to be seen by a doctor if they have a fever.
A fever is defined as a temperature of 100.4 or higher. In older infants and toddlers, it is not uncommon for a fever to go as high as 104 degrees or higher. The symptoms of a fever can be treated using over the counter fever reducers but it is important to consult with a pediatrician to determine the correct dosage for your infant.
What You Need to Take a Rectal Temperature
In order to take your infant’s temperature rectally you will need either a rectal thermometer or a standard digital thermometer with a cover on it. Be sure that after using a standard thermometer to take a rectal temperature you label it and in the future only use it to take rectal temperatures.
A small amount of lubricant, either Vaseline or KY Jelly, can help the thermometer go in smoother and is less irritating to an infant.
How to Take a Rectal Temperature
Wash the tip of the thermometer with a warm soap and water and let it air dry. If you are using a standard thermometer you can place a sterile cover over the tip. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the tip of the thermometer if desired.
Have everything ready to take your infant’s temperature before you remove their diaper. This will help prevent any surprise accidents while you are getting ready to take your baby’s temperature.
When you are ready, hold the thermometer in one hand and remove your baby’s diaper with the other hand. If needed, use a clean baby wipe to clean your infant’s bottom and carefully insert the tip of the thermometer into your baby’s rectum. The thermometer only needs to be inserted ½ an inch into your baby’s rectum to take an accurate temperature. Inserting the thermometer too far can make your infant uncomfortable.
Once the thermometer has been inserted, follow the instructions that came with it to take your infant’s temperature. Most thermometers will beep to let you know that they have finished taking a temperature. If your infant has a rectal temperature of 100.4 or higher then they have a fever.
