Fever In Infants And Children Diagnosis Chart

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Fever in Infants and Children
Because young children are not able to hold a thermometer in their mouths, their temperature may be checked rectally or axillary (under the arm). Axillary
o
temperatures are usually 1
lower than rectal temperatures, and rectal temperatures are the most accurate. All temperature guidelines listed in this chart
o
are rectal. Temperatures above 105
(oral) can be dangerous, and need immediate medical attention.
SYMPTOMS
DIAGNOSIS
SELF-CARE
1. Is your child two months of age or
This may be a sign of a serious
Call your child's doctor.
younger with a fever of 100.4° or higher?
INFECTION.
2. Is your child older than 2 months of
age with a fever of 102° or higher that is
Go to Question 14.*
unresponsive to fever-reducing medicine?
Treat your child with nonaspirin fever-reducing
and cold medicine. Make sure your child drinks
plenty of fluids and gets enough rest. Chicken
soup may also help relieve cold and flu
3. Does your child have a low-grade fever
Your child's symptoms may be from a
symptoms by breaking up congestion. See your
(up to 101°) and a runny nose, and is he
simple VIRAL INFECTION, such as a COLD
child's doctor if your child's symptoms persist or
or she tired and cranky?
or FLU.
worsen, or if your child is complaining of ear or
throat pain. Also, be sure to contact your child's
doctor if your child's temperature continues to
climb.
Mild cases of croup can be treated at home.
Make sure your child gets plenty of rest and lots
of fluids. See your child's doctor right away if
4. Does your child have a low-grade fever
These may be symptoms of CROUP.
your child is having problems breathing or
(up to 101°) and a harsh, barking cough?
swallowing, or if your child develops a blue or
grayish color around the nose, mouth or
fingernails.

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