Fever

What is the normal temperature?

36.5'C to 37'C

What is a fever?

A temperature above 37.5'C

What can cause fever?

* Infection (ear, urine, chest)

* reaction to immunisation

* a serious illness, like meningitis

How to take a temperature?

1. Under the arm

Cradle baby in your lap, place thermometer under the fold of their armpit and hold their arm flat against the side of their body for 3 minutes.

2. On the forehead

Take the backing off the fever strip and press strip firmly against baby's forehead, holding for a minute with a finger at each end. The squares change colour to reveal the degree of heat. Each strip can be used several times.

3. In the ear

This is the method many doctors mow use. Simply place the thermometer tip gently in baby's ear, as instructed, and press a button for an instant result. It's recommended you change the plastic cap after each use, to ensure an accurate reading.

What can I do about fever?

Undress baby and cool them by sponging with luke warm water.

(Don't put baby in a cold bath, as shivering triggers the body to raise its temperature)

Dress baby lightly in a singlet and nappy.

Check their temperature when you have done this. If it's still elevated, give some paracetamol.

Offer small amounts of fluids regularly, and make sure baby drinks at least the same amount as usual. (Don't worry if they don't eat)

Give baby extra attention while they are unwell.

When to contact your doctor:

Check baby's temperature an hour after giving the paracetamol. If the temperature has not lowered, contact your doctor or nearest hospital.

If baby looks pale.

If baby has fewer wet nappies than usual, or they are dark yellow in colour.

If baby only takes less than half his normal amount of fluids.

If baby is sleepier than normal, or more difficult to wake up.

If fever continues for more than 24 hours.

When it is an emergency:

(Take your child to hospital or call an ambulance)

If there is severe vomiting, and baby does not keep down paracetamol or any fluids.

If baby's neck seems stiff or rigid.

If baby is having difficulty breathing.

If baby is screaming, very irritable and unable to be consoled.

If baby is unconscious (you can't wake him up), if he is having fits or convulsions (jerky, uncontrollable movements)

Source : Children's Paradol

Image adapted from IB Spot blog