Should a child's temperature be taken on the forehead or on both sides?

May 11, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Ma Yan

Introduction

Children's body temperature is generally measured on the forehead, but this applies only to infrared thermometers. Under normal circumstances, the typical forehead temperature range for humans is between 36°C and 37°C. If, after measuring the forehead temperature, the reading is abnormally high and is accompanied by obvious discomfort, parents should promptly take the child to the hospital for medical evaluation and actively cooperate with doctors for treatment.

Children's body temperature is generally measured on the forehead, but this applies only to infrared thermometers. Details are as follows:

Infrared thermometers are a commonly used clinical instrument for measuring body temperature. Using an infrared thermometer is generally safe, accurate, and convenient, making it suitable for children and the elderly. When using an infrared thermometer, aim at the center of the forehead from about 3–5 cm above, which helps ensure measurement accuracy. Besides the center of the forehead, other areas such as the inner wrist and both ears can also be measured. If using a mercury thermometer or digital thermometer, measurements are usually taken under the armpit, though oral or rectal measurements are also possible.

Under normal circumstances, the typical forehead temperature range for humans is between 36°C and 37°C. If, after measuring forehead temperature, the reading is abnormally high and accompanied by noticeable discomfort, parents should promptly take the child to the hospital for medical evaluation and actively cooperate with doctors for treatment.

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