child fever procedure preparation

Overview

A fever is a temporary rise in body temperature. It is usually a sign that the body is fighting an infection. A fever is not an illness itself — it is a healthy response that helps the immune system work.

Yes. Fever is one of the most common reasons parents take their child to see a health professional. It is especially common in the first few years of life.

Fever can affect any child, but it is most often seen in infants and young children because their immune systems are still developing and learning to fight infections.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher
• Flushed or red cheeks
• Warm to the touch
• Shivering or sweating
• Irritability or fussiness
• Poor appetite or drinking less than usual

Symptoms in children

• Children may feel cold and shiver as the fever rises, then feel hot and sweaty as it comes down.
• They may be clingy, tired, or less playful than usual.
• Some children complain of a headache or body aches.

Symptoms in older adults

• This article focuses on children. In older adults, a fever can be harder to notice and may cause confusion or sleepiness.

Causes

Main causes

• Infections: most commonly viruses such as colds, flu, or childhood illnesses
• Bacterial infections such as ear infections, urine infections, or throat infections
• Immunisation: some vaccines can cause a mild fever for a day or two
• Teething: a slight temperature can occur, but a high fever is unlikely to be caused by teething
• Overheating from being dressed too warmly (especially in babies)

Risk factors

• Being under 5 years old
• Attending childcare or school and being around other children
• Not being up to date with recommended childhood vaccinations
• Being in very hot weather or overheated rooms

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• See a doctor urgently if your child is under 3 months old and has a fever.
• See a doctor if the fever lasts more than 5 days.
• See a doctor if your child has a long-term condition such as a weakened immune system, or chronic heart, lung, or kidney disease.

Book a routine appointment if:

• See your GP for a routine check-up if your child has a fever with no clear cause after 3 days.
• See a doctor if your child is refusing to drink and you are worried about dehydration.

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional will ask about your child's symptoms, check their temperature, and examine them. They will look at how your child looks, breathes, and responds. This is often enough to tell whether the cause is a simple viral infection or something more serious.

Tests that may be done

• Blood test
• Urine test (to check for a urine infection)
• Throat swab
• Chest X-ray (if pneumonia is suspected)
• Lumbar puncture (in very young or severely unwell infants to rule out meningitis)

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor or nurse will listen to your story, do a physical examination, and may take a temperature reading. They will explain what they think is causing the fever and give you a clear plan. In many cases, no tests are needed and you will be advised on how to care for your child at home, with a follow-up if things change.

Treatment

The main goal is to keep your child comfortable and well hydrated. You can manage most fevers at home with simple measures. Medication is only needed if your child is distressed or uncomfortable, not just to lower the number on the thermometer.

Self-care at home

• Give plenty of fluids: water, milk, or oral rehydration solution. Pale, clear urine is a good sign.
• Dress your child in light clothing, keep the room at a comfortable temperature, and use a light sheet.
• Encourage rest, but do not force your child to stay in bed.
• If your child feels hot, place a cool, damp cloth on their forehead. Do not use cold baths or freezing sponges.
• Monitor your child's temperature with a reliable thermometer and keep a record.
• Wash your hands regularly and encourage your child to do the same to stop the infection spreading.

Medical treatments

If your child is uncomfortable, a pharmacist or doctor may recommend a suitable over-the-counter medicine for children, but only in the correct dose for your child's age and weight. Never give aspirin to a child under 16 years. Always follow the instructions on the label and check with a health professional if you are unsure.

Living with this condition

While your child has a fever, wake them every few hours to offer a drink, even if they go back to sleep. Check on them during the night. Use a digital thermometer under the arm or, for babies, in the ear. Write down the readings and any other symptoms so you can tell the doctor if needed.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep your child away from nursery or school until they are feeling better and the fever has settled.
• Encourage everyone in the family to wash their hands often.
• Make sure your child sleeps in a cool, comfortable room.

Diet and exercise

Offer small, light meals if your child is hungry. Focus on fluids more than food. Once the fever resolves, your child can gradually return to normal activity. Avoid running or strenuous play while they are still unwell.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

It is completely normal to feel worried or anxious when your child has a fever. You are not alone. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to your partner, a friend, or a health professional. Your calm and comforting presence is the best medicine for your child.

Prevention

You cannot prevent every fever, but many infections that cause fever can be avoided with good hygiene and vaccinations. Teach your child to wash their hands after using the toilet, before eating, and after coughing or sneezing.

Vaccines

Routine childhood vaccinations significantly reduce the risk of serious infections that cause fever, such as measles, whooping cough, and pneumococcal disease. Keep your child's vaccinations up to date.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for fever, but regular well-child checkups help monitor growth and development and can catch health problems early.

Complications

If left untreated

• Dehydration: if your child does not drink enough fluids.
• Febrile convulsion: a seizure brought on by fever, seen in about 1 in 30 children aged 6 months to 5 years. It looks frightening but is usually brief and causes no lasting harm.
• Bacterial infections, such as pneumonia, urine infection, or meningitis, can become more serious if not treated with appropriate medicines.

Long-term outlook

The outlook for children with fever is very good. Most fevers settle within 3 to 5 days as the body fights the infection. Even with febrile convulsions, the vast majority of children recover completely and have no long-term effects. Your care and attention are key to helping your child recover safely.

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