It is important for parents to know the normal temperature of the baby, so that they quickly realize when the body temperature is Poppetrise or have a fever. It can also help parents to treat it quickly.
In addition to knowing the normal temperature of the baby, parents also need to understand how to measure it properly. The goal, so that parents do not misinterpret the condition of the baby's body. For example, when the baby's body feels hot, this does not necessarily indicate he has a fever. Need to measure the temperature with a thermometer to be sure.
Understanding the Normal Range of Baby Body Temperature
A baby's normal temperature ranges from 36.5 to 37 degrees Celsius. A baby can be considered to have a fever when his body temperature rises to more than 38 degrees Celsius when measured from the rectum (rectal temperature), 37.5 degrees Celsius when the temperature is measured from the mouth (oral temperature), or 37.2 degrees Celsius when measured from the armpit ( axillary temperature).
The baby's increased body temperature or fever is actually a symptom arising from the reaction of the immune system's resistance to a disease or infectious cause, such as viruses or bacteria.
An increase in the baby's body temperature can also occur due to teething, clothes that are too thick, and a hot environment can also make the baby's body temperature increase.
In addition to increasing, the baby's body temperature can also decrease. A decrease in the baby's body temperature needs to be watched out for if the temperature is less than 35 degrees Celsius. This condition, known as hypothermia, can occur due to exposure to cold environmental temperatures, immersion in cold water, wearing wet clothes or fatigue.
How to Measure Body Temperature in Babies
The baby's body temperature is usually known by touching the baby's cheeks, forehead, back, and stomach. However, to know the baby's temperature for sure, a thermometer is needed as a body temperature measurement tool. Usually the recommended thermometer for babies and children is a digital thermometer, because mercury thermometers have glass packaging and are prone to breakage.
There are several types of thermometers that can be used, including those placed in the armpit, ear, mouth, or placed on the forehead. However, rectal thermometers are considered the most accurate and easy to use on babies.
Before and after measuring the temperature, make sure the thermometer is clean. Wash in soapy water or wipe with alcohol. The goal is to keep the thermometer clean of germs and dirt that are at risk of spreading disease.
Measuring oral (mouth) temperature
If you want to take your baby's temperature by mouth, make sure that the temperature is not taken immediately after eating or drinking. Allow at least 15 minutes after he drinks milk or consumes complementary foods.
After the digital thermometer is turned on, place the tip of the thermometer under the baby's tongue, with the lips closed. Hold the thermometer in position until it reads a signal that the temperature has been measured successfully. Then pull out the thermometer and read the result.
Measuring axillary (armpit) temperature
When taking the temperature from the baby's armpit, make sure the tip of the thermometer touches the skin of the armpit and is not obstructed by clothing. Position the baby as comfortably as possible in the arms. Keep the thermometer in the baby's armpit clamp, until the measurement is complete, then read the result.
Measuring rectal (rectal) temperature
When you want to take a rectal temperature, place the baby on his stomach. Then apply a little petroleum jelly the tip of the thermometer and insert the thermometer about 2 cm into the rectum. Allow some time for the thermometer to sound to indicate the measurement is complete. Pull out the thermometer to see the result.
Take your baby to the doctor if:
- The body temperature of babies aged less than 3 months reaches more than 38 degrees Celsius
- The body temperature of babies and children aged 3-36 months reaches more than 39 degrees Celsius
- Fever occurs more than 3 days in infants and children aged 3-36 months
- Fever comes and goes or recurs in 7 days or more
- Fever occurs accompanied by skin rash, shortness of breath, decreased consciousness, stiffness in the neck, vomiting and the baby's crown appears to be protruding or sunken.
You are also advised to take him to the doctor if the baby's body temperature drops to 35 degrees Celsius or less, while making efforts to warm his body.
It is important for parents to know the normal temperature of the baby, so that they can respond quickly when there is a change in body temperature that needs to be watched out for. If you are worried about changes in the baby's body temperature, don't hesitate to immediately consult a pediatrician about the baby's condition.