1. Fevers & Sepsis

because their immune systems are still developing, young children are _____ to infections

more susceptible

a temperature of _____ or higher is generally considered a fever

100.4°F

fever’s impact on vitals

• tachycardia

• tachypnea

how does fever help the body fight infection?

supports the immune response + can slow the growth of bacteria and viruses

what is hyperthermia?

an uncontrolled rise in body temperature because of issue with the brain’s thermal regulation

• NOT caused by pathogens

benefits to using antipyretics for children

• increases comfort

• decreases fluid requirements and prevents dehydration

• decreases demand on body

do antipyretics treat the infection causing a fever?

no, they relieve symptoms without changing the course of the infection

does every fever require an antipyretic?

no, treatment depends on the child’s comfort and ability to tolerate the fever

which two antipyretics are commonly used in children?

acetaminophen and ibuprofen

• safe dosing most important

why must caregivers check the concentration of a liquid antipyretic?

the same volume can contain different amounts of medication if the concentrations differ

• kids and infant concentrations are different

what fluid advice should caregivers follow when a child has a fever? *

increase fluid intake to help prevent dehydration

how should a child with a fever be dressed?

lightly, without heavy clothing or warm, restrictive blankets

what water temperature should be used if bathing a child with a fever?

tepid, meaning lukewarm, rather than cold water

• avoid shivering

when should caregivers contact the provider about a child’s fever?

• when fever persists

• fever is very high

• does not improve with the recommended treatment

what should caregivers do if an infant younger than 3 months has a temperature of 100.4°F or higher? *

contact the provider immediately

what is sepsis?

a dangerous whole-body response to infection that can impair organ function (can come from any infection)

which pediatric age groups are especially susceptible to sepsis?

newborns and young infants under 2 months

• their immature immune systems make serious infection harder to fight

what life-threatening complication can develop from sepsis?

septic shock (medical emergency!!)

• hypotension

• multi-system organ failure

what level of care does a child with septic shock need?

emergency treatment and pediatric intensive care