How to Gather Information Concerning A Fever to Relate back to A Doctor or Other Caregiver

The normal human body temperature (taken orally) is 98.6°F or 37.8°C. A rectal thermometer will read about 1°F or 0.5ºC higher, while armpit temperatures read a bit lower than oral temperature. Readings taken rectally or from the armpit are regarded as being more reliable than oral readings, particularly in the case of young children as well as others who are mouth-breathers. For children under the age of three, use of a rectal thermometer is recommended. A person’s normal body temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day depending in several factors, including activity and environmental conditions. There are many potential causes for a fever, and it is essential to gather as much information as possible to relate to the doctor or caregiver in order help in his or her diagnosis of the cause. It is best to keep notes on any of the following, one copy for the physician and a second to keep for prospective later use.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Person with a fever
• Thermometer
• Pen or pencil
• Notebook

1. • Did the fever develop suddenly?
2. • What is/was the duration of the fever? (How long has it lasted?) When did it begin and/or end?
3. • Does he or she still have the fever or has it gone away?
4. • Is it a recurring fever? Does it come and go with or without treatment- Fever reducers such as Tylenol, or Advil aspirin or baths? NOTE: Do NOT administer aspirin to children under the age of 16! If you are not familiar with Reye's Syndrome, PLEASE follow the link below under Additional Resources in order to learn more!
5. • Are the fevers accompanied by chills or do they alternate with chills? If so, how frequently.
6. • Could the fever possibly be associated with an allergic reaction? (Were they recently exposed to something they are allergic to?)
7. • Has the person been exposed to another person who is ill?
8. • Are there any other symptoms accompanying the fever such as headache, body ache and/or rashes?
9. • Any other information you deem relevant.

Tips & Warnings

• Again, Do NOT administer aspirin to children under the age of 16!