Fever in Children and Febrile Convulsions

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Questions and Answers

At what temperature should you take a child under three months old to the doctor?

Above 40°C

Above 37°C

Above 39°C

Above 38°C (correct)

What action should you take if your child's temperature exceeds 40°C?

Contact a healthcare professional

Monitor them for 24 hours

Administer pain relief and wait

Take them to the doctor (correct)

What is the recommended first step when a child under three months has a fever and shows no other symptoms?

Give them paracetamol

Monitor their symptoms closely

Take them to the doctor (correct)

Administer ibuprofen

Which of the following statements is true regarding the treatment of fever in children?

Advising a doctor is necessary if a child's fever surpasses 38°C. Signup and view all the answers

What does the disclaimer emphasize regarding the information provided?

Consultation with a healthcare professional is essential. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit of lowering a child's fever?

Improving the child's comfort Signup and view all the answers

When is it necessary to see a doctor for a child with a fever?

If the child is under three months with any fever Signup and view all the answers

What should not be given to children with a fever?

Aspirin Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended action if a child with a fever is shivering?

Add another layer of clothing or a blanket Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following symptoms warrants immediate medical attention for a child with a fever?

Vomiting and refusing to drink Signup and view all the answers

What should you monitor for in your child if they have a fever?

Signs that their illness is worsening Signup and view all the answers

What is advised for infants under six months with a fever?

Frequent small drinks to ensure hydration Signup and view all the answers

What is the defining temperature of a fever in children?

Above 38°C Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern for doctors when a child has a fever?

The underlying cause of the fever Signup and view all the answers

At what temperature does a child typically have a fever?

38°C Signup and view all the answers

Which thermometer method is least recommended for measuring temperature accurately?

Plastic tape thermometer Signup and view all the answers

What should parents do if their baby under three months has a fever above 38°C?

See a doctor immediately Signup and view all the answers

What condition may occur in some children during a fever?

Febrile convulsions Signup and view all the answers

What is a common cause of fever in children?

Infection in the body Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about fevers is true?

Most fevers help the immune system fight infection. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of infection requires antibiotic treatment?

Bacterial infections Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

### Fever in Children

Fever is common in children, usually a normal response to illnesses, especially infections.
A fever itself isn't harmful and can actually help the body fight infection.
Focus on symptoms of the illness rather than the fever itself.
Fever is defined as a temperature above 38°C.
Symptoms of fever may include: being unwell, hot to touch, irritable, sleepy, vomiting, refusing to drink, shivering, and pain.
For babies under three months old, a fever above 38°C requires immediate medical attention, even without additional symptoms.
Different thermometers measure temperature differently, impacting results.
Use thermometers based on age group based on manufacturer's instructions.
Seek professional guidance on using thermometers.

Febrile Convulsions

Some children experience convulsions, also known as seizures, when their temperature rises suddenly.
These are called febrile convulsions and are not uncommon.
While sudden, they typically don't cause long-term health effects.

### Care at Home

Most fevers are caused by viruses, with bacterial infections being less common.
Antibiotics only treat bacterial infections, not viral infections, which are more prevalent.
Lowering fever doesn't speed up recovery from underlying illness.
Lowering fever primarily helps with child comfort.
Manage fever through hydration with frequent small drinks, even if the child doesn't eat.
For babies under six months, increase breastfeeds, formula bottles or cooled boiled water.
Use paracetamol or ibuprofen if the fever causes irritability or other symptoms like sore throat.
Follow dosage instructions carefully and avoid ibuprofen for babies under three months old or dehydrated children.
Never administer aspirin to children.
Use a slightly warm water-soaked sponge or facewasher to cool down the child's forehead.
Avoid cold baths or showers.
Dress the child appropriately to avoid overheating or chilling.
If the child shivers, add more clothing or a blanket until shivering stops.
Monitor for signs of worsening illness.

When to See a Doctor

For babies under three months old, any fever above 38°C requires immediate medical attention, even if no other symptoms are present.
For children with weakened immune systems due to medical conditions or treatments, a fever above 38°C warrants immediate medical attention.
Seek medical attention if a child with a fever above 38°C exhibits any of the following symptoms: stiff neck or light sensitivity, vomiting, refusing to drink, rash, excessive sleepiness, breathing difficulties, or persistent pain.
Seek immediate medical attention if a child with fever:
Has a temperature exceeding 40°C.
Has a fever lasting more than two days.
Shows signs of worsening condition.
Has experienced a febrile convulsion.

Key Points to Remember

Fevers are common in children.
A fever is defined as a temperature above 38°C.
No need to treat a fever if a child seems healthy and happy.
For babies under three months, any fever above 38°C requires immediate medical attention.
Seek medical attention if a child seems to be getting worse or their temperature is over 40°C.

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Description

This quiz covers important information about fever in children, including its definition, symptoms, and the importance of seeking medical attention for young infants. It also discusses febrile convulsions, their causes, and implications. Test your knowledge on these critical topics to ensure the well-being of children.