Temperature measurement

Normal values:

The normal temperature varies from person to person, by age, and throughout the day. The rectal temperature is usually about 1/2 to 1 degree higher than the oral, and the axillary temperature is usually about 1/2 to 1 degree below oral.

• Normal temperature by age (in degrees Fahrenheit):
  • children 0-3 months: 99.4
  • children 3-6 months: 99.5
  • children 6 months - 1 year: 99.7
  • children 1 year to 3 years: 99.0
  • children 3 years to 5 years: 98.6
  • children 5 years to 9 years: 98.3
  • children 9 years to 13 years: 98.0
  • children 13 year to adult: 97.8 - 99.1

What abnormal results mean:

If the reading on the thermometer is more than 1 to 1.5 degrees above the patient's normal temperature, the patient has a fever. Most fevers are a sign of infection and occur with other symptoms. Abnormally high or low temperatures can be serious, and you should consult a health care provider.