What is the best route for taking a temperature?
The answer to this question depends on the age of the person you care for and whether they have any other problems. Generally speaking, taking a temperature by mouth is the easiest and most common route for adults. A rectal temperature is the most accurate for infants and young children.
I still have a mercury thermometer at home, should I use it?
No. Mercury is a hazardous material that can be toxic when exposed to the skin. Glass thermometers break easily releasing mercury. Contact your local health department to determine how to dispose of a mercury thermometer. Call poison control immediately if you break a glass thermometer.
When a person has a fever, sometimes they are also sick to their stomach. Can I still give them liquids?
Yes, but give them clear liquids like:
- water
- clear juices (apple and cranberry)
- decaffeinated tea or coffee
- Popsicles and ice chips work well to hydrate a person who is nauseated. Caffeine drinks sometimes add to nausea and will increase the loss of fluids from the body.