By ULY CLINIC

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FEVER

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Fever is also known as pyrexia and is usually a symptom of an infection. It is characterized by an elevation of body temperature above the normal range of 36.5–37.5 0C  

 

Diagnostic Criteria:

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• Depression

• Lethargy

• Anorexia

• Sleepiness

• Hyperalgesia

• Inability to concentrate

• Feeling cold  Increased muscle tone

• Shivering 

 

Note: Fever alone is not a diagnosis

 

Non-Pharmacological Treatment

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• Advise patient for bed rest

• Ask patient to take plenty of fluids 

 

Note: In children, temperature >400C need urgent lowering.

However, lukewarm sponging and evaporative cooling are not recommended. Fevers caused by virus are usually self-limiting but all other fevers need treatments   

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Pharmacological Treatment

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Give antipyretic medicines:

 

Paracetamol (PO)

 

Adult:  1g 6 hourly when required

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Children: 15mg/kg 6 hourly when required  OR Paracetamol suppository, rectally 125mg–250mg, 6hourly 

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CAUTION‼

 

Aspirin is not recommended in children and young adult, under 16 years due to risk of Reye’s syndrome

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Referral:

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Refer the patient to the next facility with adequate expertise and facilities.

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• All fevers where no diagnosis is established

• If no improvement of fever after the use of antibiotics

• Fever that recurs

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Updated on, 26.10.2020

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References

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1. STG page number 4-5