What is an acceptable body temperature for a newborn?

The acceptable body temperature for a newborn is generally considered to be around 36.5°C. This range is important because maintaining proper body temperature is crucial for newborns, who are more vulnerable to temperature fluctuations. A temperature of 36.5°C is within the typical norm for infants and indicates that the newborn is likely maintaining a stable internal environment.

Temperatures significantly lower or higher than this can lead to health issues. For instance, a body temperature below 36.0°C may indicate hypothermia, which is a common risk for newborns due to their larger surface area relative to body weight and lower insulation capacity. Conversely, a temperature above 37.5°C may suggest fever, which could signal an underlying infection or other health concern.

The choice of 36.5°C aligns with pediatric guidelines for newborn care, reinforcing the importance of monitoring body temperature as part of routine assessments in neonatal care. This awareness helps ensure that any necessary interventions can be implemented promptly to maintain the infant's health and well-being.