Arginine vasopressin or antidiuretic
hormone is a known cryogen, which promotes
water retention by the kidneys and prevents
the formation of urine (Marieb 2008). This
means that more extracellular water is
available for sweating, which is a vital cooling
mechanism. The renin-angiotensin system will
be activated at the same time as the release
of antidiuretic hormone, and this system
promotes thirst. Therefore, when body
temperature falls, the child becomes thirsty
and the parasympathetic nervous system
promotes intestinal activity (Marieb 2008).
If children are vocal they will ask for a drink.
In infants, signs that may indicate that they
are ready to consume fluids include lying in
an open, splayed out position, and flushed,
hot skin. During this phase, children tend
to be less agitated and more responsive to
social cues.
3 Using the NICE
(2013) traffic light
system, identify five
signs indicating that a
child with fever may
have a serious illness?
Consider why these
features are a cause
for concern and what
your immediate actions
should be.
TABLE 4
Management of children with fever according to risk of serious illness