The most accurate method …
It is the temperature measurement at the level of the rectum … but it is far from pleasant and practical. The value obtained depends on the duration of the measurement … or your baby wriggles a lot! In addition, emotion or muscular effort are likely to increase it. And impossible to take the temperature in case of diarrhea! Ideally, the grip is done with the legs folded on the stomach, after 15 minutes of lying down. Remember to disinfect the thermometer after use.
What about ear thermometers?
They measure infrared heat emitted by the eardrum and surrounding tissue. The eardrum and hypothalamus, the body’s “thermostat”, are supplied with the same blood flow, so temperature changes are reflected more quickly in the ear than in other parts of the body. However, there may be a difference between the right and the left: always take his temperature on the same side. Gently approach the probe to the eardrum, carefully, after gently pulling the pinna back to straighten the ear canal, which is narrower in toddlers.
What about the temperature measured under the arm?
This method has the advantage of not exposing to infections and causing no trauma. But you must leave the thermometer at the level of the armpit, the arm pressed against the chest, for 10 to 15 minutes at least. Suffice to say that with a baby, it’s mission impossible!
