Clinical observations

Approximate normal physiological ranges

Temperature (°C)

• Oral — 36.5–37.5
• Axillary (under arm) — 36–37
• Rectal — 37–37.8
• Tympanic (in ear) — 36.8–37.8 

Remember

• Non-touch thermometers are screening tools only and not for clinical use
• Tympanic temperature is unreliable if ear drum is not intact, is scarred or ear canal contains pus, wax or debris