Optimal Neonatal Temperature Probe Placement: Best Practices & Considerations

It's challenging to get an accurate temperature from an infant. Neonatal experts currently debate which location on a baby's body yields the best results. Nurses and others are conducting research to find a good spot.

Abdomen Placement

• Nurses traditionally place temperature probes on an infant's abdomen, but this can cause problems. There may be limited room on the abdomen, if there is a surgical incision or other probes are being used, according to research from Risa Abramsky, a staff nurse at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston.

Back Placement

• Placing a probe on an infant's back is an option, but there is no scientific consensus about whether temperature readings are affected by an infant lying on the probe, according to a April 2001 article in Neonatal Network

Axillary Placement

• Placing a probe in the axillary region, or near the armpit and upper chest, is a less common position. Abramsky is researching the benefits of this position.