How to Use A Rectal Thermometer Properly

Adult Use

• 1

  Find a comfortable and private location. Remove your pants or undergarments for ease of access.

• 2

  Stand with one foot elevated. For example, if you are in the bathroom, put one foot up on your toilet or the edge of your bathtub. This puts you in a position that allows the thermometer to slide in easily.

• 3

  Aim the bulbous tip of the rectal thermometer at an angle toward the small of your back as you insert it slowly into your rectum, allowing 1/2 inch of the thermometer to enter.

• 4

  Wait one minute and then remove the thermometer to read the temperature.

Baby Use

• 5

  Lay your baby comfortably on her back on a changing table, bed or other suitable surface.

• 6

  Insert the bulbous end of the thermometer into the opening of the baby's rectum. Slide it in 1/4 to 1/2 inch.

• 7

  Hold the thermometer in place for a minute before removing from the baby's rectum to read the temperature.