Medical Emergencies

Fever Emergencies in Children

A rapid rise in temperature to 40O C (104O F) or higher can cause convulsions in infants and children. A fever becomes a concern when the temperature is:

• 38O C (100.5O F) or higher for an infant
• 40O C (104O F) or higher for a child

A fever in a child or infant is not an emergency on its own. A child or infant who has a fever but is otherwise happy and not troubled by the situation should be monitored. Care is appropriate when the condition is causing the child discomfort.

First Aid for a Fever in an Infant or Child

If the child or infant is showing signs of discomfort and they are generally miserable, give the child medicine such as ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) or acetaminophen (Tylenol®, Tempra®), according to the directions on the label.

The medicine may help reduce the fever, but more importantly, it will help the child feel better. Monitor and re-administer the medicine according to the directions on the label.

Dress the child lightly in a single layer of clothing to further help reduce discomfort. Encourage them to drink clear fluids (but do not force them), and seek medical attention if you are concerned about dehydration.

Seek immediate medical care when the child:

• Is under 3 months of age.
• Is very irritable or sleepy and the fever does not improve with medicine.
• Has trouble breathing.
• Has signs of dehydration – dry mouth, not urinating at least every 8 hours.
• Has a headache or sore neck that does not subside with medicine.

If the child has a convulsion:

• Call for EMS to transport the child to hospital.
• Do not restrain the child, but protect them from injury.
• Loosen constrictive clothing.
• When the convulsions stop, perform a primary survey.
• Give ongoing care. Place the child into the best recovery position for their age.

Do not give ASA (e.g., Aspirin®) to children or adolescents because it may cause Reye’s syndrome, which is a life-threatening condition.