Podcast Episode #233
What to do when your infant has a fever?
In this episode, I chat with Nicole Gleeson, a paediatric nurse, who discusses newborn and baby fever.
We discuss common questions and concerns new parents have about fever in a young baby or child, including:
- What to do if your baby is under 3 months old versus older than 3 months.
- Best way to measure temperature in a baby.
- Red flags and when to take your baby to see a doctor.
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In this article you'll find tips to:
- Understand the difference in handling fevers for babies under 3 months old versus older infants.
- Accurately measure your baby’s temperature using the most reliable thermometer.
- Recognise red flags like breathing difficulties, dehydration, or non-blanching rashes that require medical attention.
- Know when to consult a doctor, visit the hospital, or call an ambulance for your infant.
- Use paracetamol and ibuprofen safely to manage your baby’s discomfort.
- Clear your baby’s nasal passages to help with breathing, especially if they’re under 4 months old.
- Access useful resources like Nurse on Call, virtual emergency departments, and local urgent care centres.
- Trust your intuition and feel more confident in assessing your baby’s health.
In this podcast episode, we’re joined by Nicole Gleeson, a clinical nurse specialist at the Royal Children’s Hospital and founder of Rhythm First Aid. With over a decade of experience in paediatric emergency nursing, Nicole has guided countless parents through managing infant fevers and other health concerns. Her mission is to empower parents with practical knowledge and confidence when caring for their little ones. In this episode, she shares essential advice on recognising symptoms, knowing when to seek medical help, and how to stay calm in challenging situations.
Expert Tips: How to Handle Your Infant’s Fever with Ease and Confidence
Fevers in infants can be a source of anxiety for parents, but with expert advice, you can navigate these situations with clarity and confidence. In this podcast, we explore what to do when your infant has a fever, ensuring your baby receives the care they need while giving you peace of mind. Drawing from Nicole’s expertise, here’s a practical guide to managing fevers in infants.
What to Do if Your Baby is Under 3 Months Old Versus Older Than 3 Months
The approach to handling a fever depends heavily on your baby’s age:
- Under 3 Months Old:
Any temperature over 38°C (100.4°F) in a baby under 3 months old requires immediate medical attention. At this age, an infant’s immune system is still developing, making them more vulnerable to infections. The safest option is to take your baby to the emergency department, where healthcare professionals can assess the cause of the fever and perform necessary tests. - Older Than 3 Months:
For babies over 3 months old, a fever is less urgent unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Monitor their behaviour, hydration, and overall well-being. If the fever persists for more than 48 hours or your baby shows additional symptoms (outlined below), consult a doctor.
Best Way to Measure Temperature in a Baby
When measuring your baby’s temperature, accuracy is key. According to Nicole, the best method for infants is using an underarm thermometer, which is reliable and easy to use. Forehead thermometers, though popular, are often inaccurate and can lead to unnecessary hospital visits.
How to use an underarm thermometer:
- Place the thermometer snugly under your baby’s arm.
- Wait for the numbers to stabilise on the digital screen, even if it beeps earlier.
- If the reading is 38°C or higher, take action based on your baby’s age and symptoms.
Red Flags and When to Take Your Baby to See a Doctor
Fevers are a symptom, not an illness, so it’s essential to observe the bigger picture. Here are some signs that indicate your baby may need medical attention:
- Behaviour:
- Lethargy or difficulty waking.
- Extreme irritability that’s hard to soothe.
- Breathing:
- Rapid, laboured, or noisy breathing.
- Sucking in around the ribs or neck.
- Hydration:
- Drinking less than 50% of their normal intake.
- Fewer wet nappies than usual.
- Skin Changes:
- A non-blanching rash (doesn’t fade when pressed).
If your baby shows any of these symptoms, consult a doctor promptly.
When to Go to Hospital When Your Infant Has a Fever
Deciding between visiting a hospital or calling an ambulance depends on your baby’s symptoms and your circumstances.
- Under 3 Months Old:
Go straight to the emergency department if your baby has a fever over 38°C. Their immature immune systems mean any fever warrants a thorough medical evaluation. - Over 3 Months Old:
Hospital visits may not be necessary unless combined with red flags like laboured breathing, dehydration, or behavioural changes. If unsure, seek professional advice to avoid unnecessary stress. - Call an Ambulance If:
You are the sole caregiver and cannot safely monitor your baby while driving. Babies with severe breathing difficulties should never be driven to the hospital alone.
Fevers in infants are common and often a sign that their immune system is working to fight an infection. With the right tools, such as an accurate underarm thermometer, and the knowledge of what to do when your infant has a fever, you can confidently handle these situations. Remember to monitor symptoms holistically, trust your intuition, and seek medical help when in doubt.
For parents in Australia, resources like Nurse on Call, maternal health lines, and virtual emergency departments provide valuable support. And for those looking to gain hands-on skills, first aid courses like those offered by Rhythm First Aid are a fantastic way to feel more empowered as a parent.
When it comes to your baby’s health, being informed and prepared makes all the difference.
** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.
Links
Rhythm First Aid Website
Rhythm First Aid Instagram
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