Non-pharmacological Management of Fever in Children.

Abstract

Review Objectives The objective of this systematic review is to establish what non-pharmacological practices are effective in managing fever in children, three months to 12 years of age, who are otherwise healthy. More specifically, the review question(s) are: What non-pharmacological methods are effective and safe in reducing fever in children? What non-pharmacological methods in children are effective in relieving discomfort in children with fever? Does the use of these types of interventions reduce parental anxiety? Does the use of these types of interventions reduce unnecessary visits to health services? What implications do these interventions have for the care of feverish children who are otherwise well, by health professionals and parents or other care givers? Criteria for considering studies for this review Types of participants This review will consider studies that include children who are not critically ill and are aged between three months and 12 years of age and have a fever i.e. a temperature ranging from 37.5oC (tympanic or oral)/380C (rectal) to 41oC. Exclusions: Children who are critically ill or have hyperthermia, head injuries, malaria, severe anaemia, compromised cardiopulmonary function, gram negative sepsis with septic shock, meningitis, or mycobacteriosis. Infants less than three months of age. Types of interventions This review will consider studies that include but are not restricted to the following interventions: Physiological e.g. maintenance of hydration, rest, and External cooling measures: – direct e.g. sponging, clothing – environmental e.g. fans, ambient temperature Studies involving medical diagnosis and treatment of underlying conditions e.g. infection, will not be included. Studies including antipyretics as a comparator will be included. Types of outcome measures This e review will consider studies that include but are not confined to the following outcomes: -Effect on fever -Increased comfort e.g. decreased irritability, increased sleep -Decreased parental anxiety -Reduction in unnecessary use of health services