Definition of Fever
A sustained body temperature above the normal level of 37 °C (98.6 °F) is known as fever.
Recognition
- Raised body temperature above 37 °C (98.6 °F).
- Pallor.
- Victim may feel cold with goose-bumps, shivering, and chattering teeth.
Later:
- Hot, flushed skin and sweating
- Headache
- Generalized aches and pains
Causes
Fever is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection, and may be associated with earache, sore throat, measles, chickenpox, meningitis or local infection, such as an abscess.
Treatment
Step 1
Keep victim cool and comfortable – preferably in bed with a light covering.
Step 2
Give him plenty of cool drinks to replace body fluids lost through sweating.
Step 3
Child: If the child appears distressed or ill, she may have the recommended dose of acetaminophen syrup (not aspirin).
Adult: An adult may take the recommended dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen, or his own pain relievers.
Step 4
Monitor and record a victim’s temperature until he recovers.
Caution
- Moderate fever is not harmful to adults, but in young children a moderate to high temperature can be dangerous and may trigger seizures.
- Do not overdress or underdress a child with fever.
- Do not give aspirin to any person under 16 years of age.
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