Hello, I’m seeking some medical advice ahead of my family’s beach vacation during the upcoming National Day holiday on September 2nd. I have three young children, and my main concern is what to do if they fall ill, especially my youngest who has a history of febrile seizures.
Could you provide guidance on how to manage a fever in children while traveling, including first aid tips for seizures?
Thank you in advance for your expertise!
It’s quite common for children to develop a fever while traveling, often due to increased outdoor activities or changes in their environment. However, parents shouldn’t be overly concerned as fever is a normal response to fight off bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections. Most fevers in children are benign, but high temperatures that don’t respond to medication or seizures can be alarming.
Here are some steps to take if your child has a fever:
– Ensure your child rests in a cool, clean environment, dressed in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Keep them well-hydrated with water or increased breastfeeding for infants. Older children can also benefit from drinking fruit juices, especially those rich in vitamin C.
– Use a warm, damp cloth to gently wipe your child’s body. Focus on the armpits and groin area first, then move to other parts of the body. There’s no need to place a damp cloth on their forehead or chest.
– Administer fever-reducing medication if necessary. Paracetamol is recommended at a dosage of 10-15mg/kg/dose when the temperature reaches 38.5°C or higher, with a 4-6 hour interval between doses. For children with a history of febrile seizures, use fever-reducing medication at a temperature above 38°C. If the medication doesn’t work or your child exhibits abnormal behavior, seek medical attention promptly.
Use a warm, damp cloth to comfort a child with a fever. Chilling is not recommended.
What not to do when your child has a fever:
– Avoid using fever-reducing patches. Instead, opt for the warm cloth method described above. Patches are ineffective and unnecessary.
– Don’t apply cold compresses or ice packs. This practice is ineffective and can be harmful, especially if the fever is caused by viral or bacterial infections. It may also cause cold injuries and compromise breathing.
– Keep the room well-ventilated. Avoid closing doors and windows, as stuffy rooms can make the child more uncomfortable and worsen their condition.
– Maintain a nutritious and diverse diet for your child. Avoid restrictive diets, as they can weaken their immune system and make them more susceptible to illness and malnutrition.
Ensure your child receives adequate nutrition, including vitamin C-rich foods, during a fever.
Additionally, if your child experiences a seizure, remain calm and place them on their side to prevent choking. Do not restrain their movements or attempt to stop the seizure. Once the seizure subsides, gently insert a soft cloth or handkerchief between their teeth to prevent tongue injury during potential subsequent seizures.
According to PGS.TS.BS Nguyen Tien Dung’s extensive emergency experience, most children relax their jaws after a febrile seizure. At this point, you can insert a soft cloth to prevent further jaw clenching.
To be well-prepared for any medical situations during your trip, it’s advisable to pack essential medical supplies such as a thermometer, fever-reducing medication, bandages, saline solution, anti-diarrheal medication, insect repellent, and allergy medication (if applicable) …
