Your Prescription Drug Destination
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Rectal Thermometer Use
WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
Measuring a small child's temperature with a thermometer
inserted into the rectum is the most exact way of determining
whether the child has a fever. Special thermometers with short
stubby tips are made for this purpose. They are recommended for
use in children under 5 years old. Rectal temperatures
generally run higher because the rectum is a warm area. The
normal rectal temperature of a child is 99.6 degrees F (37.5
degrees C).
WHAT YOU SHOULD
DO
-
You must start by shaking the
thermometer down below the 97 degrees F mark (36.1 degrees
C). Hold the thermometer by the end opposite the tip and
sharply snap your wrist and hand. Keep the thermometer over
a couch or bed so that, if it slips from your hand, it
won't break.
-
Cover the tip of the
thermometer with lubricating or petroleum
jelly.
-
Place the child on his or her
stomach to limit struggling.
-
Spread the buttocks and
gently insert the thermometer about an inch into the
rectum. Never force it. Hold the buttocks together to keep
the thermometer from falling out.
-
Leave the thermometer in
place for 3 minutes. DO NOT leave the child unattended
during this period.
-
To read the temperature,
slowly turn the thermometer until you can see the line of
mercury. Each long line represents 1 full degree. Short
lines are read as 0.2 degrees.
-
Wash the thermometer
carefully in soap and warm water after each use. Store in a
safe place.
Seek Care Immediately
If...
-
The child has a high
temperature.
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