Question

A 9-month-old baby, during their afternoon nap, had a rectal temperature of 36.5 degrees Celsius. Is this normal? What should the normal rectal temperature be?

Answer

Hello, generally speaking, a young child’s normal body temperature ranges between 36 and 37.2 degrees Celsius. Here are several common methods for measuring a young child’s body temperature:

  1. Oral measurement: First, disinfect the thermometer with 75% alcohol, place it under the tongue, and keep the lips tightly closed. After 5 minutes, read the temperature; the normal range is 36.3 to 37.2 degrees Celsius.
  2. Axillary measurement: This method is less likely to cause cross-infection and is the most commonly used method for measuring body temperature. Dry the armpit sweat, place the mercury end of the thermometer at the top of the armpit, and use the upper arm to hold it tight. After 10 minutes, read the temperature; the normal range is 36 to 37 degrees Celsius.
  3. Rectal measurement: This method is often used for unconscious patients or infants. The patient lies on their back, and after lubricating the head of the rectal thermometer with an oil substance, gently insert it into the anus to a depth of half the length of the thermometer. After 3 minutes, read the temperature; the normal range is 36.5 to 37.7 degrees Celsius.