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Together is a new resource for anyone affected by pediatric cancer - patients and their parents, family members, and friends.
Learn MoreThe best way to take a temperature is to use a digital thermometer. They are quick and easy to use. Do not use a glass mercury-containing thermometer. Mercury thermometers can be toxic if broken.
How fever is defined can vary based on the method used to take a temperature. Check with your doctor for specific fever guidelines.
How fever is defined can vary based on the method used to take a temperature. Check with your doctor for specific fever guidelines.
For children over 3 months of age, fever can be defined as:
An oral (by mouth) temperature of 100.9°F (38.3°C) or higher
An oral temperature of 100.4°F (38.0°C) or higher that persists for one hour
An under the arm (axillary) temperature of 99.9°F (37.7°C)
An under the arm temperature of 99.4°F (37.4°C) or higher that persists for one hour
In a child younger than 3 months, a fever is an under the arm temperature of 99.4°F (37.4°C) or higher.
An oral temperature is generally the most accurate way to check for fever. If a child is too young or has painful mouth sores, take the temperature under the arm.
Oral and underarm temperatures are the two methods recommended for most pediatric cancer patients. Talk to your doctor before using any other method, such as temporal artery (forehead) thermometer or tympanic (ear) thermometer, since they may be less accurate. Avoid pacifier thermometers and forehead strips. They do not give accurate readings.
IMPORTANT: Taking a temperature rectally (in the bottom) can be a risk for pediatric cancer patients. Cancer patients often have weakened immune systems. They may have rashes or sores around the anus and bottom. A rectal thermometer can damage the thin skin of the anal area and increase risk for infection. Rectal temperatures are not usually used to check for fever in children with cancer.
For infants and young children who do not have cancer and who are otherwise healthy, pediatricians may recommend a rectal temperature. Rectal thermometers often provide the most accurate reading of body temperature. Always follow your doctor’s instructions on how to measure fever.
Most thermometers can be cleaned using soap and water. You can also use rubbing alcohol (70% isopropyl alcohol) to wipe off the surface (rinse off before oral use). Wipe dry with a clean cloth.
Do not boil or soak the thermometer in water. Do not clean in the dishwasher. Always follow the directions from the manufacturer.
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Reviewed: August 2021
A fever is an increase in body temperature that is often caused by an infection. Fever in children with neutropenia is serious and needs immediate medical attention. Learn what to do if your child has a fever or other signs of infection.
The immune system is the body's defense against infection. A network of special cells, tissues, and organs work together to protect the body from a variety of "invaders" or germs.
Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) is an estimate of the body’s ability to fight infections. These test results are often called “counts.” When counts are low, the patient has neutropenia. Patients with neutropenia have a difficult time fighting infections and must take certain precautions that will affect their daily lives.