Axillary temperature refers to a body temperature reading taken from the armpit, also known as the underarm. It is widely adopted due to its non-invasive nature and ease of use, making it a common choice for quick temperature checks. This technique is often used for home monitoring or when other methods are impractical.
Taking an Axillary Temperature
To measure axillary temperature, use a digital thermometer. Ensure it is clean and turned on. Remove any clothing covering the armpit so the thermometer directly contacts the skin. The armpit area should also be dry, as moisture can affect the reading.
Place the thermometer’s tip in the center of the armpit, nestled into the skin’s fold. Hold the arm firmly against the body to keep the thermometer in place. The thermometer should remain there until it beeps, usually about a minute. Once it beeps, remove the thermometer and read the temperature displayed.
Understanding its Accuracy
Axillary temperature measurements are generally considered less accurate than readings from the mouth, rectum, or ear. This is primarily because they reflect skin temperature rather than core body temperature. As an external site, the armpit’s temperature can be influenced by external factors and may not precisely mirror the body’s internal temperature. For instance, an axillary reading can be lower than an oral reading by 0.5°F (0.3°C) to 1°F (0.6°C), and even more so compared to rectal temperatures.
Factors such as sweating, ambient room temperature, and insufficient contact between the thermometer and skin can affect accuracy. Activities like bathing or exercise can also temporarily raise skin temperature, leading to inaccurate measurements if taken too soon. Some research suggests axillary temperatures can be approximately 0.6°C lower than rectal or oral measurements in children. The method’s accuracy can vary significantly.
When Axillary Temperature is Used
Despite its accuracy limitations, axillary temperature measurement is commonly used where its non-invasive nature and ease of application are advantageous. It is often the preferred method for monitoring temperature in infants and young children, particularly those under 3 months old, as it is considered safe and less intrusive. For children up to age 5, it remains a frequently used method due to its convenience.
This method is also practical for general home monitoring, providing a quick screening tool for potential fever. If an axillary reading suggests a fever, healthcare providers often recommend confirming the temperature with a more accurate method, such as rectal or oral measurement, especially in young children. The armpit method is also suitable for individuals who find other temperature-taking methods uncomfortable or impractical, such as those recovering from oral surgery or who cannot breathe through their nose.