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Sponge Bath for Fever

Aka: Sponge Bath for Fever

See Also
1. Fever Symptomatic Treatment
2. Fever
Indications
1. Fever >104 degrees Fahrenheit
2. No relief with Analgesics
  1. Acetaminophen
  2. Ibuprofen
Precautions
1. Consider evaluation for serious causes of high fever
Technique
1. Partially submerged in lukewarm water 85-90 degrees
2. Duration: 15 to 20 minutes, repeated as needed
3. Avoid water that is too cold (avoid shivering)
Adjuncts
1. Give Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen before sponging
2. Medications assist in maintaining lower temperature

Family Practice Notebook

Patients should address specific medical concerns with their physicians.

Although access to this page is not restricted, the information found here is intended for use by medical providers.

This page was written by Scott Moses, MD, last revised on 10/21/2007 and last published on 5/17/2012.

This is one of 5740 pages in the Family Practice Notebook