The parent of an 18monthold child calls the clinic to report that the child has a
rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C). The child is playing normally, taking fluids well, and has a slightly reduced appetite. What will the primary care pediatric nurse practitioner recommend?

Question

The parent of an 18­month­old child calls the clinic to report that the child has a
rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C). The child is playing normally, taking fluids well, and has a slightly reduced appetite. What will the primary care pediatric nurse practitioner recommend?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) in an 18-month-old child is generally considered a low-grade fever, and the fact that the child is playing normally, taking fluids well, and has only a slightly reduced appetite suggests that the fever is likely due to a mild illness and not a medical emergency. Therefore, the primary care pediatric nurse practitioner would recommend offering extra fluids and advising the parent to call back if symptoms change or worsen. Administering an antipyretic medication or ordering outpatient lab work such as a CBC is not necessary at this point unless symptoms change or worsen. Bringing the child to the clinic for evaluation may be necessary if the fever persists or worsens or if other concerning symptoms develop.

The Parent of an 18­month­old Child Calls the Clinic to Report

The Parent of an 18monthold Child Calls the Clinic to Report