What temperature indicates a fever when taken rectally?

A rectal temperature of 100.6 degrees F is generally considered to indicate a fever. This threshold is important in the medical field because it helps caregivers and healthcare professionals identify when a person may be experiencing an infection or another illness that warrants further investigation or treatment.

Rectal temperatures are often higher than those measured orally or under the arm, making them more reliable for accurately assessing core body temperature. A reading of 100.6 degrees F indicates that the body is responding to some form of stress, such as an infection. Understanding fever thresholds is crucial in clinical assessments to determine appropriate care or interventions.