II. Precautions

  1. Fever is not harmful until 106-107 degrees Fahrenheit
    1. Interpret fever in the context of the patients other findings
    2. Distinguish concerning vs non-concerning (e.g. lethargic or alert, limp or strong, whimper or vigorous cry)
  2. Treat fever for comfort, but not to lower below a certain level
    1. Lowering fever does not prevent Febrile Seizures
  3. Alternative antipyretics at maximal frequency risks medication errors and overdosage
    1. Fever is not by itself dangerous in most cases

III. Medications (as needed)

  1. Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
    1. Child: 15 mg/kg/dose PO/PR q4-6 hours
    2. Adult: 650 mg po PO/PR q4-6 hours
  2. Ibuprofen (Motrin)
    1. Child: 10 mg/kg/dose PO q6 hours
    2. Adult: 400 mg PO q6 hours

IV. General Measures

  1. See Sponge Bath for Fever
  2. Adjust clothing to lower Temperature
    1. Keep clothing to a minimum
    2. Bundling may result in higher Temperature

Images: Related links to external sites (from Bing)

Related Studies