Does your child have a fever? Let's talk about how to take a temperature correctly!

Does your little one feel a little hot? Is he struggling and crying without even playing? At such times, the first thing that comes to mind for a mother or father is, "Does my child have a fever?" Yes, at such times, it is very important to check and find out if he has a fever. Because, a fever can be a sign of some illness. So today, let's talk about how to accurately and safely measure your little one's temperature. There is nothing to worry about, it is very simple.

What kind of thermometer should we use?

Remember when there were glass thermometers filled with mercury ? But now doctors say that digital thermometers are the best, they can take temperatures quickly and accurately. They are also easy to use and safe.

There are three main types of digital fever:

1. Regular Digital Thermometers:

You've probably seen these, they look like a small, straight stick. On one side there's a sensor that measures the temperature at the tip, and on the other side there's an easy-to-read digital display . With this type of thermometer, we can take our temperature in three ways:

• Rectal: This is the most accurate method for very young babies.
• Oral: This method is good for older children who understand what is being said.
• Axillary/armpit: This is also an easy method, but may be a little less accurate than the other two.

2. Ear Digital Thermometers:

These thermometers have a small plastic probe. They are inserted into the ear and measure the temperature by measuring the heat waves coming from the eardrum . Babies should be at least 6 months old to use these. Since babies' ear canals are smaller than that, it can be difficult to get an accurate reading.

3. Temporal Artery Digital Thermometers:

This is a new technology. This thermometer measures the heat waves emitted by a major blood vessel that runs under the skin through the forehead – we call it the Temporal Artery . It can be used on babies and adults alike. However, the way to use this type of thermometer can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer. So if you buy a new one, it's a good idea to read the package insert that comes with it carefully.

Important:Whatever type of thermometer you buy, use it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Also make sure you know how it signals that the temperature is ready (e.g., a 'beep' sound).

Don't use these types of thermometers! (Thermometers to Avoid)

There are some types of thermometers on the market now, and the readings they give are not very accurate. Therefore, using them to check your temperature is useless.

• Plastic strip thermometers: These are placed on the forehead, but they do not accurately measure the temperature inside the body.
• Pacifier thermometers: Although they are designed to take the baby's temperature while sucking on the pacifier, the reading will be inaccurate if the baby is not holding the pacifier properly.
• Smartphone temperature apps: These are not yet very reliable.
• Also, remember this: Never use glass mercury thermometers! If they break, the mercury will leak out and be very harmful to both you and your baby. That's why they are no longer recommended.

What is the best way to check fever based on age?

No one knows better than a mother or father how difficult it is to keep a naughty little one in one place and check their temperature. Sometimes the little one starts crying and struggling. So, the best way to check the temperature should be based on the age of the little one and how much he or she cooperates with us.

Here are the recommended methods by age group:

• For babies younger than 3 months:

The most accurate and recommended method for measuring temperature in infants of this age is a rectal temperature. This temperature is the closest to the core body temperature.

• For babies between 3 and 6 months old:

It is best to take a rectal temperature for these babies. However, if you find it difficult to do so, you can also take a temperature from the temporal artery or the axillary/armpit. However, keep in mind that the reading may be slightly lower when taken from the armpit.

• For children between 6 months and 3 years old:

For children of this age, it is best to take a rectal temperature. However, they may struggle because they are a little bigger. In that case, you can also take a temperature from the forehead (temporal artery), ear (ear - if over 6 months), or axillary (armpit).

• For children over 4 years old (Kids 4 years or older):

If a child of this age can understand what we are saying and hold the thermometer properly under the tongue, taking a temperature orally is the best and easiest way.If that is not possible, or if he is not cooperative, the other methods mentioned earlier can be used, namely rectal, temporal artery, ear, or axillary.

Let's learn a little more about the different ways to check for fever.

Okay, now let's see how to check the temperature using each of these methods. Don't worry, I'll explain it simply.

How to check for fever through the rectum?

This is the most accurate method for the smallest babies.

1. First, apply a little water-soluble lubricant or petroleum jelly to the silver tip of the condom. This will make it easier to insert the condom and won't hurt the baby.

2. Turn the baby on his side and bend his knees slightly towards his chest. Or you can turn the baby on his stomach and place him on your lap or on a bed.

3. Then slowly and very carefully insert the tip of the bamboo skewer about 1.5 to 2 centimeters (about half an inch or so) into the anus. Don't force it at any time, okay?

4. Hold the thermometer until it beeps, or for the time specified on the thermometer. Try to keep the baby still.

5. Then slowly remove the thermometer and check the reading.

6. After use, be sure to wash the bamboo skewer thoroughly with lukewarm soapy water, wipe it with a disinfectant , and store it.

How to check for fever through the mouth?

This can only be done by children over 4-5 years old, who understand what we are saying, and who can hold the bamboo skewer under their tongue.

1. If the child has eaten or drunk something hot or cold, wait at least 20-30 minutes before taking the temperature. Otherwise, the reading may be incorrect.

2. Place the tip of the thermometer under the child's tongue, to one side of the tongue (sublingual pocket).

3. Tell the child to close their mouth and press the bamboo skewer with their lips. But remind them not to chew with their teeth.

4. Hold the bamboo skewer until you hear a 'beep' or until the set time has passed, then check the reading.

5. Wash and clean this well after use.

How to check for fever in the armpit (Axillary/Armpit)?

This is the easiest method to use, but it is not as accurate as the other methods. Typically, the reading obtained with this method can be about 0.5°C to 1°C (1°F to 2°F) lower than the other methods.

1. If the child's armpits are sweaty and wet, they should be wiped thoroughly and dried.

2. Place the tip of the cotton ball in the middle of the armpit, pressing firmly against the skin.

3. Ask the child to hold the arm close to the body, keeping the armpit closed. To be precise, the bamboo skewer should be firmly pressed against the skin and stuck.

4. Hold the bamboo skewer until you hear a 'beep' or until the set time has passed, then check the reading.

5. Some people say that when measuring fever using this method, you should add a little bit (e.g. 0.5°C) to the resulting temperature to consider the actual temperature, but it's best to ask a doctor about that.

Be careful of these things when you have a fever!

No matter how you approach the flu, keeping these little things in mind will make it easier for you and your baby.

• Don't take your baby's temperature right after you've bathed him. Also, don't take his temperature right away if he's well-wrapped and wearing lots of clothes (or swaddled if he's a baby). Because at that time, his body temperature may have risen a little due to the environment, and the reading may be inaccurate. Wait a while and check again.
• Don't leave your child alone when they have a fever, especially if the fever blister is in their mouth or rectum. You should stay close to them and comfort them.
• Be sure to clean your bamboo skewer thoroughly before and after use. Wash it with lukewarm soapy water and wipe it with a disinfectant such as alcohol .

When should I see a doctor?

A fever can be a sign that the body is fighting an infection. Therefore, you should pay attention to your child's other symptoms, not just the fever.

Our body temperature is usually around 37°C (98.6°F). This can vary slightly throughout the day. It's a little lower in the morning, a little higher in the evening. It's a little higher in the mouth than in the armpit, and a little higher in the rectum than in the mouth. Usually, we call it a fever if it's over 38°C (100.4°F).

In these cases, you should definitely see a doctor:

• If a baby under 3 months old has a rectal temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher , take him or her to a doctor immediately. This may be a medical emergency .
• If a baby between 3 and 6 months old has a fever higher than 38.9°C (102°F), or if the fever is low but the baby is lethargic, not eating or drinking, or crying more than usual, call a doctor.
• If a child over 6 months old has a fever of over 39.4°C (103°F), or if the fever is accompanied by these symptoms:
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizure/convulsion
• Stiff neck
• A rash
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• If you appear dehydrated without even drinking water (dry mouth, sunken eyes, no urination for 6-8 hours)
• If the fever persists for more than 2-3 days or if the fever comes, subsides a little, and then comes back again.
• If the child is unusually lethargic or irritable .

Finally, things to remember (Take-Home Message)

Dear Mom and Dad, checking your little one's temperature may seem like a bit of a challenge at first, but if you do it right, it's not a big deal. The most important thing is to do it calmly and correctly.

• Always use an accurate, good-quality digital thermometer.
• Choose a fever measurement method that is appropriate for your child's age and condition.
• Clean and disinfect the bamboo skewer before and after use.
• If you have the slightest doubt about a fever, or if your baby seems unwell, never be afraid to seek advice from a doctor, and never delay. Ask the doctor or nurse about even the smallest question you have.
• It's very important that you stay calm. If you get nervous, your little one will be even more scared and anxious.
• Don't forget, a fever is not a disease, it's just a symptom of a disease. Therefore, it's important to find the cause of the fever and treat it.

Wishing your child a speedy recovery!

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