Question

What is the normal body temperature range for newborns?

Answer

The normal body temperature range for newborns refers to the relatively constant and uniform temperature of the body’s deep interior, known as core temperature; while the temperature at the surface of the body is disturbed by various factors, causing greater fluctuations and differences, known as superficial temperature. In clinical diagnosis, the term ‘body temperature’ refers to the average core temperature. Generally, oral sublingual temperature is considered, with a value of 37°C (ranging from 36.3 to 37.2°C), rectal temperature 37.5°C (0.3 to 0.5°C higher than oral temperature), and armpit temperature of 36.0°C (ranging from 35.8°C to 36.3°C).