stressful situation for new parents especially if you're doing it rectally. How do I hold

the thermometer? How far should I insert it? And am I hurting my baby? These are all good

questions that most moms and dads ask at some point. Now, here are some answers that will

hopefully make the whole process a lot easier for you and your baby. When new mom Kate wants

to know if six- week old Parker has a fever, she takes Parker's temperature rectally 'cause

it's the most accurate way. But some parents we know shy away from the rectal thermometer

altogether because they're afraid they might hurt their newborn. It's important to learn,

though, 'cause it is the most reliable way to take your baby's temperature especially

for babies younger than three months old. So, here are some tips that may make you feel

more comfortable taking your baby's temperature next time. First, mercury thermometers are

no longer recommended because of the danger of being exposed to the toxin. And second,

you wanna read the directions that come with your digital thermometer so you'll know which

beeps mean what. Put petroleum jelly on the bottom end of the thermometer. Hold your baby's

ankles together and push your knees back until they touch your belly. Now, gently insert

the thermometer about a half an inch, stopping if you feel any resistance at all. Continue

holding your baby's legs while loosely holding the thermometer so it can move with your baby.

Remove the thermometer when it beeps to check the reading. So, when should you call your

pediatrician? Well, for newborns younger than two months, always call if baby has a fever

and that's defined as a rectal temperature of 100. 4 degrees or higher. Need more advice

on how to care for your newborn? Check out our other informative baby basics videos.

Also, if you want some information on any of the fabulous furniture you saw in our nursery,

go to egiggle. com. Thanks for watching Baby Basics on Parents TV, your source for the

best information for your growing family.