Whether you’re child feels warm or under the weather, know that it’s time to take his/her temperature. Sounds simple but some parents might have many questions. Wondering if temperature monitoring devices can detect temperatures in newborns? If yes, then which devices are the best? Well, it is normal to have so many questions and to help you, here is everything you need to know.
Is it Possible to Detect Temperature Abnormalities in Newborns with Temperature Monitoring Devices?
Newborns are highly prone to temperature fluctuations and temperature monitoring is a crucial step for their well-being. Wondering if temperature monitoring devices can detect a newborn’s temperature? Well, yes and this is where a digital thermometer comes in.
In the last years, thermometers have changed, eliminating the use of mercury thermometers as they are a toxic metal. However, thanks to medical advancements and the use of digital thermometers allow doctors to quickly detect temperature abnormalities in newborns.
Best Thermometer Choices to Take an Infant’s Temperature
Long gone are those days when mercury thermometers were a staple in most healthcare cabinets. Things have now changed and the best thermometer choices to take an infant’s or newborn’s temperature include:
- Rectal Temperature
For taking rectal temperatures, digital rectal thermometers are the best choice. You can use this thermometer with a short probe and they have a digital readout. It is the most accurate and best for babies younger than 3 months old.
- Ear Temperature
For ear temperature, digital ear thermometers work the best and give the quickest and most accurate results. It is best for older infants and babies older than 6 months. To get accurate results, the thermometer must be pointed toward the eardrum.
- Armpit Temperature
For armpit temperature, an infrared thermometer works best and is disk-shaped. To get accurate results, make sure there is no clothing between the thermometer and the child’s clothing. It is best for babies of 3 months ages and older.
- Forehead Temperature
For forehead temperature, forehead infrared thermometers are the best choice. They are non-invasive and gentle and give quick measurements. It is best for newborns between 0 to 3 months. These types are less disturbing and measure the body temperature on the forehead through the artery.
- Mouth Temperature
For mouth temperature, any digital thermometer can work. It is best suitable for younger children and for children age 4 and older. As it is oral, the thermometer’s tip is placed under the child’s tongue, followed by closing the lips gently. It will give a digital readout after a beeping sound.
- Skin Temperature
For skin temperature, an infrared thermometer is a great choice and is best suitable for ages from 0 to 3 months and 3 to 6 months. It detects the temperature of the skin by detecting the infrared radiation emitted by the skin.
What are the Risks Involved with Newborns Having Abnormal Temperatures?
A newborn’s growth and health may suffer in many ways if they are unable to maintain a normal temperature. Wondering what are the risks involved? Well, here is what you should know:
- Newborns who are overheated or hyperthermic are more likely to appear flush or show symptoms of rapid breathing or heartbeats.
- Newborns who are too cold or hypothermic may use more oxygen and glucose to generate heat. As a result, it could result in hypoxia or hypoglycemia.
- If not treated, hypothermia can change normal blood flow patterns. This, as a result, can raise the risk of necrotizing enterocolitis and intraventricular haemorrhage.
- If the temperature stays high for an extended period, an infant may experience electrolyte imbalances due to insensible water loss or dehydration.
- In some cases, the infant’s risk of death and infection may also increase, especially during low-temperature admission and hypothermia development after admission.
To pay close attention to the temperature abnormalities in a newborn, it is important to pay close attention to the symptoms. To help you, here are some signs to note:
- A hypothermic infant may show hypotonic and sluggish symptoms and breathe shallowly. Some newborns may have reduced capillary refill time and pale, mottled skin.
- A hyperthermic infant may show symptoms like more red and flushed skin. They may cry softly, breathe more quickly, seem restless and may have tachycardia.
How to Take Care of Infants with Thermoregulation Issues?
After delivery, all newborns must maintain an ideal body temperature in the first few hours. Talking about premature infants, often have difficulty attaining newborn thermoregulation. This includes underdeveloped skin, increased metabolic rate, underdeveloped capacity to sweat or shiver, etc. This is where it becomes important to help the newborns balance between heat production and loss. To help you, here are some best ways you can keep the newborns at an ideal temperature:
- The very first thing you need to do is check the signs and symptoms of abnormal temperature.
- Then, you may increase the temperature frequency and intervention.
- To minimize the newborn’s thermoregulation challenges, pay close attention to the environment transitions.
For newborns with hypothermia:
- In addition to providing a warm environment, you may also use radiant warmers or incubators.
- To maintain a warm environment, use blankets.
- The newborn should get formula feeding or breastfeeding.
- Also, make sure to monitor temperature regularly.
For newborns with hyperthermia:
- In addition to providing a cool temperature, you may also remove excess clothing or blankets.
- To maintain a cool environment, use fans or air conditioners.
- The newborn should get cool water or electrolyte-rich fluids.
- Also, remember to monitor temperature regularly.
Never Leave Any Child Unattended
At Medguard, we are a leading supplier of thermometers and accessories. From digital thermometers to automatic wall-mounted thermometers, we have a wide range of thermometers to suit all your needs. Our thermometers are not only available in different types but also come with premium features.
Additionally, you can also explore accessories for safe use and handling. From clinics, hospitals, home care and domestic to nursing homes, our products offer accurate results. Besides, you can also rely on our superior support team for quality service and customer support.
