Seeing your child uncomfortable, fussy, ill, and cranky can give even the most composed parents jitters and nightmares just watching their child in such a condition. Caring for a child with fever can be a field day of a completely different level. One such condition that makes a lot of parents nervous is when they notice their little one coming down with a fever. Here are some useful first aid tips to help you take better care of your children when they are down with fever.
1. If your child is younger than 3 months and registers a temperature 100.4 degree F i.e. 38 degree C or higher then immediately consult your child's pediatrician. Do not try to self-medicate or try to deal with it with any of granny's remedies.
2. A child between 3 to 6 months of age should be taken to the pediatrician in case the infant has a temperature of 101F or higher or if the fever lasts more than a day. Similarly, for a child aged between 6 months to a year of age fever at or higher than 103F means a trip to the pediatrician.
3. A child of any age with a fever of 104F needs medical attention and should be provided with it at the earliest possible.
4. When an older child has a fever of 102F and under it usually doesn't need treatment but make sure that your child is well rested and comfortable. Do not force feed your child and let them eat what they feel like.
5. Bathing the child in lukewarm water helps manage the fever and bring down the temperature of the body. Avoid using ice baths, cold water or alcohol to bring down temperature.
6. You can use a squeezed muslin cloth dipped in cold water and place it on the forehead from time to time. The same can be done on the arms and hands and feet sole if need be.
7. Consult your pediatrician before administering any kind of medication for fever to your child. Use only doctor prescribed medication instead of self-medicating.
8. Make sure that your child has plenty of fluids since fever causes dehydration. Adequate hydration is required to help the body fight the infection.
9. Dress the child light weight clothes and cover them with a light sheet or blanket to keep them from getting cold.
10. Ensure that your child is comfortable always when their body is dealing with a fever, it will help faster recovery.
11. Keep a check on your child's temperature every couple of hours and ensure that the body temperature is maintained at normal for atlas 24 hours before sending the child to school or day care.
Fevers are usually mean that your child's body is fighting off an infection and functioning exactly the way it should. The best thing one can do when taking care of a child having a fever is ensuring light nutritious meals, adequate hydration and enough rest and comfort.
