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Fever Control Instructions
Fever is defined by a temperature of at least 100 degrees Fahrenheit, or 38 degrees Celsius. Normally, body temperature is in the range of 97 to 99 degrees Fahrenheit. Most often, a fever is the body's response to infection. Infections may be due to viruses or bacteria. Occasionally, the body can mount a low grade fever (100-101 degrees F) in response to certain inflammatory conditions (cancer, injury, etc.). Treatment for fever involves use of aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen (Nuprin, Advil). ADULTS can use either of these, but children should ONLY use acetaminophen or ibuprofen products (Pedia-Profen). Adults may take 10 grains or two regular strength aspirins every 4 hours. Acetaminophen should be used no more than every 4 hours (take 2 regular strength, or an "extra strength" dose is acceptable). A dose of 200mg to 600mg of ibuprofen is adequate for fever control. DO NOT bundle up if your fever is high, this can increase your body temperature. CHILDREN should use acetaminophen at 1 grain per year of age up to 10 grains (each regular strength acetaminophen is 5 grain). Acetaminophen may also be dosed as 5 mg per pound of body weight every 4 hours. Always check labels on acetaminophen products as dose strengths can be different. Pay attention to any "over-the-counter" cold medicines, many of these products already contain acetaminophen. Infant acetaminophen comes as 80 mg in every 0.8cc dropper. The elixers for children are usually 160 mg per teaspoon. Children's ibuprofen is available by prescription as a liquid (Pedia-Profen). It is usually dosed 5-7mg per kilogram of body weight or 2-3mg per pound of body weight for fever control.
Overdosage of acetaminophen AND aspirin are discussed in detail in the POISON FILE. Additional treatment for higher fever (103 or more) includes the use of a tepid bath (luke warm water), or sponging off the body with tepid water. DO NOT BATHE CHILDREN IN ALCOHOL. In infants, a rapid change in body temperature can precipitate febrile seizure activity. THIS MUST BE EVALUATED PROMPTLY BY A PHYSICIAN.
Hope this article will provide you information about fever control instructions.
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