Body temperature is one of the main physiological indicators of vital activity of any living organism. In humans, maintaining a constant body temperature is carried out by a special center, which is located in the hypothalamus. It is he who regulates the balance between the amount of heat educated and given.
Features of thermoregulation in children
Each infants is born with an immature thermoregulatory system. That is why the increase in temperature in infants is not uncommon. Quite often, due to the fact that the baby is not dressed for the weather, he overheats or, on the contrary, is overcooled.
Where to measure?
It is known that it is possible to measure the value of body temperature not only in the humeral bend (armpit), but also in the mouth, rectum. As a rule, they do this when there is no possibility to measure the temperature in the classical way. It should be taken into account that the values will differ slightly from all known 36-37 degrees.
Usually, the temperature in the rectum is 1 degree higher and varies between 36.8-37.4 C and in the mouth 36.6-37.3 C. Before measuring the temperature in the rectum, it is necessary to lubricate the thermometer tip with vaseline oil.
How to measure the temperature?
A young mother, suspecting something wrong, often simply does not know how to temper the temperature of her baby. To do this, it is better to use a conventional mercury thermometer, since it gives more accurate readings. Before measuring the temperature of a nursing baby, it is necessary to check that his armpits are dry. If necessary, you can wipe them with a towel.
Then you need to put the baby on your back, put the thermometer in the armpit and press your hand against the calf. The measurement should take 2-3 minutes.
When measuring the temperature of a baby with an electronic thermometer, the actions of the mother should be the same as described above. Today, this device is used much more often than its mercury analogue. This is due to the fact that there is no dangerous mercury in the electronic thermometer , and besides it is equipped with a small display, which makes it easier for the mother to use it.
As you can see, the measurement of temperature in infants is a fairly simple procedure, not requiring skills and training. However, using a mercury thermometer, you need to be careful, and make sure that your child does not accidentally break it with his uncoordinated movements.