"Taking your Child's Temperature"
FOR AIR WEEK OF July 25, 2005

When your baby or toddler is sick, knowing his or her temperature provides important information.

Hi, I’m Dr. John Hellerstedt with the Children’s Health Minute, presented by this station and TexCare-- connecting families with CHIP and Children’s Medicaid.

Two options for taking a young child’s temperature are rectally or under the arm. Digital thermometers are safest, and indicate when the reading is ready.

Rectal temperatures are the most accurate. Begin by placing the child on his belly across your lap. Gently insert the lubricated thermometer one inch into the rectum. Hold the buttocks and the thermometer firmly in place.

An underarm temperature can be useful. Hold your child against you with his arm to his side and place the probe of the thermometer in his armpit. Don’t forget to comfort child during and after taking his temperature.