“When it comes to keeping little ones safe, every parent, teacher, and caregiver knows it can feel like a full-time job! In this blog series, we’ll dive into the must-know first aid essentials for childcare and education settings—straight from a mum and registered nurse who’s seen it all, both at home and on the job. Whether it’s wrangling kids with skinned knees or managing a sudden allergic reaction, I’ve got the real-world tips (and the tales) to help you stay calm and confident when things go sideways. Let’s get started with practical, no-nonsense first aid guidance that cuts through the jargon—because when things get messy, knowing what to do makes all the difference.”

As a parent or childcare provider, seeing a child with a fever can be worrying. It’s natural to want to understand what’s happening and how best to help them feel better. This guide aims to empower you with practical knowledge, so you can confidently handle fevers in children.

Fever is a common symptom in children and often not as alarming as it might initially seem. However, there are times when it may signal something more serious. This article will cover:

What is a Fever?
What to Look Out For
How to Manage a Fever at Home
When to Seek Medical Assistance
The Importance of First Aid Training

1. What is a Fever?

A fever is the body’s natural response to infection. It occurs when the hypothalamus (the body’s thermostat in the brain) raises the body temperature to fight off viruses or bacteria.

In children, a fever is generally defined as:

A temperature of 38°C or higher, measured with a reliable thermometer.

Insert image – thermometer reading higher than 38 degrees

Fevers are usually caused by:

Viral infections, such as colds, flu, or gastroenteritis.
Bacterial infections, like urinary tract infections, ear infections, or respiratory infections.
Post-vaccination responses, which can cause mild fevers.

Misconceptions About Fever

It’s important to note that fever itself isn’t harmful—it’s a sign that the body is fighting an infection. The focus should be on the child’s overall condition rather than just the number on the thermometer.

2. What to Look Out For

While a fever is common, understanding associated symptoms can help you determine whether it’s part of a mild illness or something requiring medical attention. Consider the following when you’re caring for a child:

Symptoms to Monitor

Child’s Behavior: Are they alert, playful, and drinking fluids? Or are they unusually lethargic or inconsolable?
Skin Changes: Look for rashes, pale or bluish skin, or cold extremities.
Breathing: Is their breathing labored, rapid, or noisy?
Hydration: Signs of dehydration include fewer wet nappies, dry lips, and lack of tears when crying.
Duration of Fever: A fever lasting more than 48 hours in younger children or more than 3 days in older kids should be assessed by a doctor.
Your Instincts: Trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right—whether it’s their behavior, appearance, or how they’re responding to care—seek medical advice.

3. How to Measure a Child’s Temperature

Taking an accurate temperature is essential when assessing a child’s fever. Here are the two most commonly used methods:

Using a Digital Thermometer

Digital thermometers are versatile, easy to use, and provide reliable readings. They can measure temperature orally, under the arm, or in the ear.

Oral (for older children):
- Place the thermometer tip under the child’s tongue and ask them to close their lips around it.
- Wait until the thermometer beeps and read the temperature.
Underarm (for younger children):
- Place the thermometer tip under the child’s arm, ensuring it touches the skin.
- Hold their arm snugly against their side until the thermometer beeps and displays the reading.
Ear (with a digital ear thermometer):
- Gently insert the thermometer tip into the child’s ear canal.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to get an accurate reading.

Using an Infrared Thermometer

Infrared thermometers are non-invasive and measure temperature quickly, often with just a scan of the forehead or ear.

Forehead (temporal artery thermometer):
- Hold the thermometer a few centimeters from the center of the child’s forehead.
- Press the button to scan and read the result on the display.
Ear (tympanic thermometer):
- Similar to the digital ear thermometer, gently insert it into the ear canal.
- Follow the specific instructions for your thermometer model.

Tips for Accuracy:

Ensure the thermometer is clean and free from debris.
Avoid taking temperatures immediately after the child has eaten, bathed, or been active, as these can temporarily affect readings.
Always follow the instructions provided with your thermometer.

4. How to Manage a Fever at Home

Managing a child’s fever effectively at home can provide comfort and reassurance for both the child and caregiver.

Keep the Child Comfortable

Clothing: Dress them in lightweight clothing and use light bedding.
Room Temperature: Keep the environment cool, around 20-22°C.
Fluids: Encourage frequent sips of water, oral rehydration solutions, or breastmilk/formula for babies.

Medication (If Necessary)

Use paracetamol or ibuprofen in appropriate doses for the child’s weight and age. These medications can reduce fever-related discomfort.
Avoid aspirin (in children under 16) as it can lead to a rare but serious condition called Reye’s syndrome, which affects the brain and liver.
Only use medication if the child is uncomfortable or in pain, not simply to reduce the fever.

Monitor Closely

Keep a close eye on their behavior, hydration, and any additional symptoms. And always trust your instincts—if something feels off, don’t hesitate to seek help.

5. When to Seek Medical Assistance

While most fevers can be managed at home, there are situations where you should seek professional help immediately.

Emergency Symptoms Requiring Immediate Attention

Seizures: If the child has a febrile seizure (fits due to fever), stay calm:
- Lay them on their side in a safe area.
- Time the seizure and call 000 if it lasts longer than 5 minutes.
Severe Difficulty Breathing: If the child is struggling to breathe, wheezing, or their lips are turning blue, seek urgent help.
Non-Blanching Rash: A rash that doesn’t fade when pressed may indicate meningitis. This requires emergency care.
Dehydration: Signs include sunken eyes, dry mouth, and no wet nappies in 8 hours.
Lethargy or Unresponsiveness: If the child is difficult to wake or unusually drowsy.
High-Pitched Cry: In infants, an unusual, high-pitched cry can signal distress.

When to Visit a GP

If the child is under 3 months old with a temperature over 38°C.
If the fever persists for more than 48 hours in children under 2 years old.
If other symptoms, like ear pain or persistent vomiting, accompany the fever.
Trust your instincts: If you feel uneasy about the child’s condition, even if they don’t have clear emergency signs, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.

6. The Importance of First Aid Training

Caring for a child with a fever is just one of many situations where basic first aid knowledge can make a significant difference. Understanding how to handle emergencies, like febrile seizures or dehydration, can save lives and prevent complications.

As a nurse and first aid trainer, I’ve seen firsthand the confidence that proper training provides. If you haven’t already, I encourage you to take a first aid course tailored for parents and childcare providers. At My First Aid Course Brisbane, we offer comprehensive, hands-on training designed to prepare you for real-life scenarios.

Learning first aid not only benefits your child but also empowers you as a caregiver to respond effectively in a crisis.

Quick Fever Management Checklist

✅ Measure the temperature with a reliable thermometer (oral, underarm, or forehead).
✅ Keep the child comfortable with light clothing and a cool room.
✅ Ensure they stay hydrated with plenty of fluids.
✅ Administer age-appropriate paracetamol or ibuprofen if needed.
✅ Monitor their symptoms and overall behavior closely.
✅ Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen, emergency signs appear, or if you feel something isn’t right.

Final Thoughts

Fevers in children are often manageable with the right knowledge and care. By staying calm, monitoring symptoms, and knowing when to seek help, you can support your child’s recovery while easing your own worries.

To gain even more confidence in handling childhood illnesses and emergencies, consider enrolling in a first aid course. If you’re in Brisbane, My First Aid Course Brisbane offers parent-focused training that equips you with essential skills and peace of mind.

Taking the time to learn first aid is one of the best investments you can make for your family’s health and safety.

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Understanding Fever in Children: What to Look For, How to Manage, and When to Seek Help