Thermometers:
No Appointment Necessary

Aired on Superstation WGN
Saturday, July 30 and November 19, 2005

Show 220

Dr. Lisa Thornton:

It's just amazing how many different kinds of thermometers there are. How do you know which ones best? Take a look.

Ty Pham, PharmD:

There are several types of thermometers that are good to use for children. It all depends on the child's age. Some of the newer ones are easier to use and read than the old mercury type. And they give you a quicker read out. For babies less than three months old, taking the temperature under the armpit or rectally is recommended. A rectal temperature measurement is more accurate. For children three months to four years old, doctors recommend using a rectal thermometer, electronic pacifier thermometer, an ear thermometer. Since children over four are usually able to hold an oral thermometer under the tongue, doctors recommend taking the temperature of this age group by mouth. Most children can tolerate fevers very well. However, if you get a rectal reading of 100.5 degrees in an infant under three months old, or if a child of any age appears listless, complains of a headache or stomach ache and has a high fever, you should get immediate medical attention.