If you have a young child at home, you probably know that it is very common for them to have a fever. Even a simple cold can cause a fever, or even when teething. So it is very important to check the temperature accurately at such times. Because, only when we know how high the fever is can we decide what to do next. Today, let's talk about the correct way to check the temperature of a young child through the mouth (Oral Temperature).
What is an oral temperature?
Simply put, this is a method of measuring the body temperature by placing a thermometer in the child's mouth, under the tongue. This often gives us an accurate reading. But this method cannot be used by everyone, at every age, for children. Let's look at that too.
Who is suitable for fever screening using this method?
Usually, it is easiest and most appropriate to take a temperature through the mouth for a child who is around 4 or 5 years old and who is a little older and listens to what you say . This is because it is difficult for young children to hold the thermometer in their mouth. They will try to chew on it and move it around. If they do, we will not be able to see the exact temperature. Therefore, only use this method if your child is old enough to listen to you and keep their mouth shut for a while.
Remember: For young children, especially those under 4 years old, taking a temperature by mouth is not a good idea. They have other methods, such as taking a temperature by armpit. You can ask your family doctor or midwife about that.
What do we need for this?
To check the temperature through the mouth, we mainly need a digital thermometer . In the past, there were glass thermometers that had mercury inside, so definitely don't use them.
Why are glass thermometers not good?
Imagine, what would happen if a child chewed on a glass thermometer like that and it broke? The glass shards could get stuck in the mouth, and the mercury inside is very harmful to the body. It is toxic. Therefore, safety is the first and foremost important thing . Since digital thermometers are made of plastic, there is no fear of breaking them, and there are no harmful substances inside. Also, taking a temperature with a digital one is very easy and quick.
Should we do these things before checking the temperature?
Okay, so now that you have a digital thermometer, there are a few more things to keep in mind before you start taking your temperature.
1. Wait a while after eating or drinking: If your child has just finished eating or drinking something (especially something hot or cold), wait at least 20 to 30 minutes before taking the temperature. Otherwise, the thermometer may give an inaccurate reading because the temperature in the mouth is too hot or too cold.
2. Is there anything in the mouth? : Check to see if the child has any chewing gum, toffee, or chocolate in their mouth. If there is anything, remove it and rinse their mouth.
3. Is the thermometer clean? : Before taking a temperature, clean the tip of the thermometer (the part that goes into the mouth) with soap and water or an alcohol swab. Then rinse with clean water and let it dry. This is very important, otherwise germs can spread.
4. Wash your hands: It is wise to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before checking your temperature.
Okay, now how exactly do you check your temperature? - Step by step
Now let's see how to check your temperature exactly. Don't worry, it's very easy.
1. Tell your child: First, talk to your child in a loving way and tell them what you are going to do. Say something simple like, "Son/daughter, let's take a look at the fever? When you put this in your mouth, it makes a 'beep' sound. Is it okay to keep your mouth shut for a while?" Don't scare them.
2. Turn on the thermometer: There is a small button on the digital thermometer. Turn it on. Usually, some letters will appear on the display, and a value like '0' will appear.
3. Place it under the tongue: This is the most important part. Place the tip of the thermometer under the child's tongue, to one side of the tongue . To be precise, there is a little space under the tongue on both sides, right? That's where you should place it. Placing it directly on the tongue will not accurately measure the temperature.
4. Tell your child to close their mouth: Once the thermometer is in place, tell them to close their lips. Remind them not to chew or talk .
5. Teach them to breathe through their nose: While holding their mouth closed, teach them to breathe normally through their nose. This will help them feel less uncomfortable.
6. Wait for the 'beep' sound: Now you need to be patient. Most digital thermometers make a 'beep... beep...' sound when they are finished taking the temperature. Hold the thermometer still until you hear that sound. It usually takes about 30 seconds to a minute.
7. Read the temperature: After the 'beep' sound, take the thermometer from your mouth and read the value shown on the display. That is your child's body temperature.
A little tip: Make checking your child's temperature a game. If you say something like, "Let's see who stays quiet until the 'beep' sounds," they'll be more willing to cooperate.
How much is a fever? Normal temperature and fever conditions
Now you've checked your fever. But what is a fever? The average oral temperature of a healthy child is between 36.5 and 37.5 degrees Celsius.
- If it's above 37.5 degrees Celsius, it's a low-grade fever.
- If it's above 38 degrees Celsius, that's what we call a "fever".
- If it is above 39 degrees Celsius, it may be a "high fever".
These values may vary slightly depending on the child's age and general condition. Therefore, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor and find out at what level your child is considered to have a fever.
What do you do after checking your temperature?
Once the fever is gone, there are a few more small things to do.
1. Clean the thermometer again: As soon as you finish taking the temperature, as mentioned earlier, clean the tip of the thermometer thoroughly, dry it, and store it in the small pouch or box it came in.
2. Write down your temperature (optional): If you want, you can write down the time you had your fever and the temperature in a book. This will be useful if you go to a doctor.
3. When to call a doctor:
- If a baby under 3 months old has a fever of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher, they should be seen by a doctor immediately.
- If the child's fever is higher than 39C (102.2F).
- If the child is very uncomfortable with a fever, refuses to eat or drink, has difficulty breathing, or shows symptoms such as seizures.
- If the fever lasts more than two or three days.
- If you have any doubts or fears, what a mother feels is often right.
Common mistakes and other tips when checking the temperature of children
- Place the thermometer correctly: Holding it on the tongue or in the front of the mouth can give an inaccurate reading. Remember to place it under the tongue, off to the side .
- The child opens his mouth/talks: If this happens, the thermometer may be exposed to the outside air and the temperature may be lower.
- Be quick: Don't remove the thermometer before the 'beep' sound.
- Keep your child calm: If your child is crying or struggling, it may indicate a slightly elevated temperature. Try to keep your child as calm as possible before taking the temperature. They may calm down if you hold them on your lap and talk to them affectionately.
In summary, let us remember (Take-Home Message)
Okay, so we've talked about a lot today, haven't we? Taking a temperature through the mouth isn't that difficult, but it's important to do it right.
In short:
* It is best to check for fever by mouth in a child over 4-5 years old who is listening.
* Use only a digital thermometer. Never use glass ones!
* Wait 20-30 minutes after eating and drinking. Make sure there is nothing in your mouth.
* Place the thermometer under the tongue, to the side, and ask the child to close their mouth and breathe through their nose.
* Wait patiently until you hear the 'beep' sound.
* If the fever is over 38°C, it is a fever. If in doubt, talk to a doctor.
* Don't forget to clean the thermometer after taking the temperature.
I hope you found these tips helpful. A fever in a child is nothing to be afraid of, but the most important thing is to be aware and act appropriately. If you have any further questions, be sure to ask your family doctor.
` Oral Temperature, Child's Fever, Digital Thermometer, Fever Measurement, Fever Symptoms, Oral Temperature, Digital Thermometer
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