What is the appropriate method for taking the temperature of an infant?

Taking the temperature of an infant is best accomplished using a rectal thermometer due to the accuracy it provides. Rectal measurements are considered the gold standard for infants, as they reflect the core body temperature more reliably than other methods. Infants have a higher heat production and their body temperature can fluctuate more than in older children or adults, making precise measurements essential for identifying fever or other health issues.

Other methods, while useful in specific situations, may not provide the same level of accuracy. Oral thermometers are generally not suitable for infants as they require the child to cooperate and hold the thermometer in place. Forehead (temporal artery) thermometers can offer a less invasive option and are convenient, but they may not always give consistent results in very young children. Axillary thermometers often underestimate core body temperature, making them less reliable in diagnosing fever in an infant. Therefore, for accurate and consistent measurements, a rectal thermometer is the preferred option in this age group.