Nursing Interventions in Clients with Fever
Monitor vital signs
Assess skin color and temperature.
Monitor WBC, Hct and other pertinent laboratory records.
a. Elevated wbc levels indicate presence of infection.
b. Elevated Hct indicates dehydration.
Remove excess blankets when the client feels warm; provide extra warmth when the client feels chilled.
Provide adequate foods and fluids. To provide additional calories and to prevent dehydration.
Measure Intake and Output.
Maintain prescribed IV fluids as ordered by the physician.
Promote rest. To reduce body heat production.
Provide good oral hygiene. To prevent herpetic lesions of the mouth.
Provide cool, circulating air using a fan. To dissipate heat by convection.
Provide dry clothing and bed linens. To ensure comfort.
Provide TSB (Temperature of water 80-98°F). To enhance heat loss by evaporation and conduction.
Administer antipyretics as ordered. Temperature of 38.5°C and above usually require administration of antipyretic.