Question
The baby is three days away from being one month old. In the evening, the body temperature was measured using an electronic thermometer, with one side showing 37.0 degrees, another 36.8 degrees, and the forehead measuring 37.7 degrees, with one instance reaching 38.0 degrees; the armpit measurement with a mercury thermometer was 37.0 degrees. Why do the measurement results differ? Which method of measurement should be considered standard?
Answer
The baby’s body temperature is not a cause for concern, and the mercury thermometer should be used as a standard. Generally, a body temperature below 37.4 degrees is considered normal, with 37 degrees also being within the normal range. It is advised not to overdress the baby and to use the mercury thermometer as much as possible. As long as the baby is feeding well and is in good spirits, there is no need to worry.