Question

• A mother calls the pediatric clinic to report her child has a temperature of 100.3 degrees Fahrenheit. She also states her child is fussy and does not want to each much. What are some questions you would ask the mother?
• Utilizing the above scenario what would you recommend to the mother?

Answer 1

Low grade fever in Kids : Slightly elevated temperature in Kids that last for more than 24 hours  . Temperature ranges between 98 .7 - 100.4 degree Fahrenheit.  Infections like respiratory infections or other viral or bacterial infections, stress, allergy , autoimmune disorders may cause low grade fever in child.  

Questions:

* At what time the fever started ?

* Any history of recurrent fever in recent days?

* Associated symptoms present like running nose or cough?

* is the child is allergic to something ? ( drug or food )

* Do the child is having any significant medical history or surgical history?

* Any  measures mother has taken to reduce the fever? , ( if yes, what? )

Recommendations:

* Instruct the mother not to be panic over child's temperature .

* Recommend the mother that allow the child to sleep . Disturbing the sleep for eating or for giving the medicine may increase temperature of the child.  

* Give the child a lukewarm bath , instead shivering him/ her with cold water.

* Dress the child lightly. if he is having chills , give a light blanket. covering with many sheets may trap the heat and increase the temperature of the child.

* Encourage the child to drink plenty of fluids like water , juice etc.

* If the temperature goes upto 102 degree, then she has to bring the child to clinic or connect to the Paediatrician. If the low grade fever last for 3 days , then also parents have to take the baby for consultation.

* Pre prescribed child medication for fever can be given to the child ( example: Tylenol) , but the dosage shouldn't exceed than Doctor's order.