A new-born’s temperature should be:

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Question

This question was previously asked in

SGPGI Staff Nurse Official Paper (Held On: 28 Feb, 2024 Shift 1)

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Answer 1

Correct Answer: 37.7 °C (rectal)

Rationale:

A newborn's body temperature is an important indicator of their health status. The rectal temperature is considered the most accurate measurement of the core body temperature in infants. This is because the rectal method provides a direct reading of the body's internal temperature, unaffected by external factors like air temperature or clothing.
The normal rectal temperature for a newborn is approximately 37.7 °C (99.9 °F). This value is slightly higher than the average adult temperature due to the newborn's metabolic activity and physiological processes.
Maintaining an appropriate body temperature is crucial for newborns as they are less capable of regulating their temperature compared to adults. Deviations from the normal range could indicate underlying issues such as infection, hypothermia, or overheating.

Explanation of Other Options:

37 °C (axillary)

Rationale: Axillary (underarm) temperature is commonly used for newborns due to its ease and non-invasive nature. However, it tends to be less accurate than rectal measurements. The normal axillary temperature for a newborn is slightly lower, typically around 36.5 °C to 37 °C, making this option not the best representation of core body temperature.

37 °C (oral)

Rationale: Oral temperature measurement is not suitable for newborns because they are unable to hold a thermometer in their mouth properly. This method is more applicable to older children and adults. Therefore, this option is incorrect as it is not a recommended method for newborn temperature assessment.

36.8 °C (axillary)

Rationale: While 36.8 °C could fall within the normal axillary temperature range for a newborn, it does not represent the core body temperature as accurately as the rectal method. Axillary readings can vary based on external conditions, making it less reliable for assessing a newborn's health.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, 37.7 °C (rectal) is the most accurate and reliable measurement of a newborn's core body temperature. Proper temperature assessment is critical for identifying potential health issues and ensuring the well-being of the infant.