How acurate is Vick's underarm thermometer?

Question

I have a 4 month old is sick and the docs want me to take his temp...the only thermometer I have is a special underarm one....how acurate is it...it states that you have to add 2 degrees F to get the rectal temp....anyone know???? I am concerned because the underarm reading is 99.5 - 100.3

Answer 1

I have that thermometer and the nurse said if you take it under the arm then you add one degree.  It is accurate when you add the degree as I took it then had to take my son to the hospital and when they took it the temp from home and hospital matched.

Answer 2

when you take them temp under the arm, you have to add a full 1 degree to whatever the thermometer says. i hope your baby feels better soon.  

Answer 3

The underarm thermometer would more than likely have a lower temp if it weren't to read properly.  It sounds like he does have a fever.  

Answer 4

Underarm thermometers really aren't that accurate.  With a four-month-old I wouldn't risk it, go to the store and spend the $8 on a rectal one.

Answer 5

Just tell your doc the exact temp you got by the underarm method with the Vick's thermometer. He/she knows how many degrees to add or subtract depending on the method, at least that has been my experience. Have you given your baby a little infant Tylenol to bring the temp down? That is perfectly safe and a good idea. Although, I am not a doctor, just a mom whose had sick kids! Best wishes.