How to Take an Axillary Temperature

This is a convenient way to take a child’s temperature especially for kids who can’t hold a thermometer in their mouths.

Remove your child’s shirt and undershirt, and place the thermometer under an armpit (it must be touching skin only, not clothing).

Fold your child’s arm across the chest to hold the thermometer in place.

Wait until you hear the appropriate number of beeps or other signal that the temperature is ready to be read. Write down the number on the screen, noting the time of day that you took the reading.