One-third of parents tend to give their children antipyretics without medical indication. This was reported by University of Michigan doctors.
A high fever is the most obvious symptom of a cold, and many parents regularly monitor their child’s appearance, including touching their foreheads. To investigate parental responses to rising temperatures, the researchers studied 1,376 families with children aged 12 and younger.
Two of the three parents said they always knew for sure if their child needed antipyretics. About half of the respondents are aware that temperatures can vary greatly depending on the method used. Parents interviewed mostly measure their child’s temperature by placing a thermometer in their mouth or forehead, with less than one-sixth using ear, armpit or rectal methods. It is worth noting that the study was conducted in the United States, where it is customary to hold a thermometer in the mouth.
Two-thirds of parents prefer to try methods such as cold towels before using antipyretics. Most parents say they always or often make a note of the time of each dose and take the child’s temperature again before giving another dose.
Additionally, one in three parents said they are ready to give their children antipyretics at temperatures below 38 degrees Celsius. According to doctors, this is not recommended without serious reason, because a moderately high temperature is the body’s natural way of fighting against the multiplication of viruses and bacteria. If the high temperature is uncomfortable, it is recommended to use alternative methods of calming the child, drinking plenty of water, as well as ventilating the room.
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