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Fever
Pediatrician
Fever is the body's way of fighting infection. What matters most is the baby's age and how the baby looks, not just the number.
| Age | How to take the temperature |
|---|---|
| Up to 3 months | Rectal (the most accurate) |
| 3 months to 4 years | Rectal or forehead (temporal artery). Underarm only to screen |
| From 6 months | Ear also works |
| From 4 years | By mouth, if the child can keep it closed |
What to do
- Use a digital thermometer. Rectal: put petroleum jelly on the tip and insert only 1/2 to 1 inch (1 to 2.5 cm).
- Offer breast milk or formula more often so the baby doesn't get dehydrated.
- Dress the baby in light clothing and keep the room cool.
- If the baby is over 3 months and uncomfortable, you can give acetaminophen. Ibuprofen only from 6 months. Use the dose on the package for your baby's weight, or ask the pediatrician or pharmacist.
- Write down the time, the temperature and any medicine you gave.
What not to do
- Never give aspirin.
- Don't give fever medicine to a baby under 3 months without talking to the pediatrician first.
- Don't rub the baby with alcohol or bathe them in cold water.
- Don't overdress the baby to 'sweat out' the fever.
- Don't use forehead strips or your hand to measure fever.
