A digital or electronic thermometer is the quickest, most accurate way to test for fever.
- Take the thermometer out of its holder.
- Put the tip into a new throw-away plastic cover if one is available. If you do not have a cover, clean the pointed end (probe) with soap and warm water or rubbing alcohol. Rinse it with cool water.
- With your mouth open, put the covered tip under your tongue.
- Close your lips gently around the thermometer.
- Keep the thermometer under your tongue until the digital thermometer beeps.
- Remove the thermometer when numbers show up in the "window".
- Read the numbers in the window. These numbers are your temperature.
- Your caregiver may want you to keep a temperature record. Write down the time and your temperature each time you take it.
- Remove or eject the throw-away cover if you used one.
- Place the thermometer back in its holder.
