Temperature monitoring in the neonate: a comparison of axillary and rectal temperatures

This study investigated the differences between temperature taking in neonates by the axillary method and by the rectal method. A sample of 46 normal full-term neonates had axillary and rectal temperatures monitored for ten minutes by each method with mercury in glass thermometers. There were significant differences found between axillary and rectal temperatures when compared minute for minute. Stabilized axillary and stabilized rectal temperatures were not tested for difference because axillary temperatures did not meet the criteria for stabilization. A significant positive correlation was found between axillary and rectal temperatures. Axillary temperature taking may be a practical method for neonatal temperature monitoring.