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Questions and Answers
At what temperature should you take a child under three months old to the doctor?
What action should you take if your child's temperature exceeds 40°C?
What is the recommended first step when a child under three months has a fever and shows no other symptoms?
Which of the following statements is true regarding the treatment of fever in children?
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What does the disclaimer emphasize regarding the information provided?
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What is the primary benefit of lowering a child's fever?
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When is it necessary to see a doctor for a child with a fever?
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What should not be given to children with a fever?
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What is a recommended action if a child with a fever is shivering?
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Which of the following symptoms warrants immediate medical attention for a child with a fever?
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What should you monitor for in your child if they have a fever?
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What is advised for infants under six months with a fever?
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What is the defining temperature of a fever in children?
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What is the primary concern for doctors when a child has a fever?
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At what temperature does a child typically have a fever?
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Which thermometer method is least recommended for measuring temperature accurately?
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What should parents do if their baby under three months has a fever above 38°C?
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What condition may occur in some children during a fever?
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What is a common cause of fever in children?
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Which statement about fevers is true?
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Which type of infection requires antibiotic treatment?
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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
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For babies under three months old, any fever above 38°C requires immediate medical attention, even if no other symptoms are present.
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For children with weakened immune systems due to medical conditions or treatments, a fever above 38°C warrants immediate medical attention.
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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.
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Seek immediate medical attention if a child with fever:
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Has a temperature exceeding 40°C.
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Has a fever lasting more than two days.
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Shows signs of worsening condition.
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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.
