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Although a rectal temperature is more accurate, taking an axillary temp is useful for babies or very young children. It is much simpler, but takes longer and is not as accurate. The degree of accuracy is dependent upon how well the parent follows the directions.

To prepare for taking an axillary temp, you will need a good thermometer. Although old-fashioned glass thermometers are okay to use, a digital thermometer that is sold for oral use is recommended because glass thermometers can break and leak mercury.

Here are the steps to follow:
1.Make sure the armpit or axilla is dry and free of clothing.

2.Turn on the digital thermometer.

3.Point the thermometer upward and place the tip well into the underarm.

4. Place the baby's arm over his chest and hold the thermometer in place to keep air away from the thermometer.

Many parents prefer to hold or hug their baby while taking the temperature to keep the arm and thermometer still. This method also comforts the baby.
You will need to wait 4-5 minutes even is you hear the thermometer beep a signal that it is done. When time is up, remove the thermometer and read the display.

Fever is any axillary temp greater than 99 degrees Fahrenheit(F)or 37.2 degrees Celsius(C). If you get a reading of 99 degrees or higher, you will want to double check by doing a rectal temp for accuracy. If there is a chance your baby has a fever, he will need to be immediately evaluated by the pediatrician.

Some other tips you want to remember, are:
1.You need to wait to take an axillary temperature if your baby just had a bath or if he was bundled tightly for a while because the temperature will not be an accurate reading.

2.An axillary temperature can be as much as 2 degree lower than a rectal temp.

3. Most pediatricians recommend taking rectal temps in infants younger than 3 months of age when accurate readings are most important.

4.When calling your pediatrician, be sure to tell them that your reading is an axillary temperature reading so that your child will get the best treatment.

If you take correct steps in taking an accurate temperature, your baby can receive prompt treatment and complications of fever can be avoided.

Learn more about this author, Kathleen Gadomski.
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