What is a typical normal range for rectal temperature?

The typical normal range for rectal temperature is generally considered to be between 98.6 °F and 100.4 °F, which aligns with the body's core temperature range. Rectal temperatures are often slightly higher than oral temperatures due to their measurement site being closer to the body's core. A reading of 99.6 °F, which is at the lower end of the rectal temperature range, can indicate a normal state, while values approaching 101.6 °F can indicate a fever or illness.

The other options provided fall outside the accepted range for rectal temperatures. Recognizing that rectal temperatures are typically higher than oral or axillary readings helps grasp why they are an important method for accurate measurement in clinical settings, particularly for infants and those with fluctuating body temperatures.