II. Precautions
-
Fever is not harmful until 106-107 degrees Fahrenheit
- Interpret fever in the context of the patients other findings
- Distinguish concerning vs non-concerning (e.g. lethargic or alert, limp or strong, whimper or vigorous cry)
- Treat fever for comfort, but not to lower below a certain level
- Lowering fever does not prevent Febrile Seizures
- Alternative antipyretics at maximal frequency risks medication errors and overdosage
- Fever is not by itself dangerous in most cases
III. Medications (as needed)
- Background
- Alternating Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen is more effective than either agent alone
-
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Child: 15 mg/kg/dose orally (or PR) every 4-6 hours
- Adult: 650 mg po orally (or PR) every 4-6 hours
-
Ibuprofen (Motrin)
- Child: 10 mg/kg/dose orally every 6 hours
- Adult: 400 mg orally every 6 hours
IV. General Measures
- See Sponge Bath for Fever
- Adjust clothing to lower Temperature
- Keep clothing to a minimum
- Bundling may result in higher Temperature