Feverish children

Abstract

Fever is the most common reason that parents seek medical advice for their child. Fever is often attributed to benign self-limiting viruses; however, it can be a sign of a serious and potentially life-threatening illness. A substantial amount of uncertainty still remains in this difficult area. Management is not simply a case of following the algorithm: parental ideas, concerns and expectations need to be defined, diagnoses formulated and explanations made during the consultation. Evidence-based interventions can be contrary to lay custom and practice; hence, they can increase parental anxiety. This article aims to inform GPs about how to assess and manage a feverish child based on evidence-based guidelines and explores how to explain decisions to parents and carers.