Fever/Sepsis — Pediatric Algorithm

What precautions are used if indicated in pediatric fever/sepsis?

Contact, droplet, and airborne precautions.

What vital sign is obtained first in pediatric fever/sepsis?

Temperature.

What temperature defines fever in the pediatric fever/sepsis protocol?

Greater than 100.4°F (38°C).

What age must a child be over to receive ibuprofen for fever?

Over 6 months old.

What is the dose of ibuprofen for pediatric fever?

10 mg/kg.

How is ibuprofen administered for pediatric fever?

PO.

What is the max dose of ibuprofen for pediatric fever?

800 mg.

What age can receive acetaminophen for pediatric fever?

Any age.

What is the dose of acetaminophen for pediatric fever?

15 mg/kg.

How is acetaminophen administered for pediatric fever?

PO.

What is the max dose of acetaminophen for pediatric fever in 24 hours?

75 mg/kg.

How are liquid pediatric fever medications dosed?

Off manufacturer guidelines.

What can untreated fever lead to in kids?

Seizures.

What monitoring is applied for unstable vital signs in pediatric fever/sepsis?

Cardiac monitor.

When is IV/IO access done in pediatric fever/sepsis?

If indicated.

Which febrile children should receive IVs?

Unstable patients with abnormal vital signs.

What is the dose of normal saline for pediatric fever/sepsis?

20 mL/kg.

What is the max dose of normal saline for pediatric fever/sepsis?

60 mL/kg.

When is normal saline given beyond the first bolus in pediatric fever/sepsis?

If indicated.

How many times can the normal saline bolus be repeated in pediatric fever/sepsis?

Once.

What is the final step in pediatric fever/sepsis?

Transport.