Note: This guideline is currently under review. Show
Aim Definition of Terms Temperature Ranges Assessment At Risk Patient Groups Management Special Considerations Companion Documents Links Evidence Table References IntroductionTemperature management remains a significant component of hospital care for all neonatal and paediatric patients. Body temperatures outside normal ranges may be indicative of underlying disease processes or clinical deterioration, and should be identified within a timely manner. Maintaining a stable body temperature within normal ranges assists in optimising metabolic processes and bodily
functions. Therefore, minimising environmental factors within the hospital setting which may result in unnecessary body temperature fluctuations is further important. AimTo assist healthcare professionals in undertaking the appropriate assessment and potential management of neonatal and paediatric body temperatures, at The Royal Children’s Hospital. Definition of Terms
Temperature Ranges
*Significant variation of suggested temperature values and ranges exists within current literature. The values presented in this table are derived from a collaboration of multiple sources and expert opinions, and should be utilized as a guideline only. Exact normal temperature ranges differ between individuals. It is important to ascertain an individual’s baseline in order to identify abnormal body temperature deviations, and to evaluate these in the context of other vital signs and overall patient presentation. Please note, any febrile child who appears seriously unwell should have a thorough assessment and their treating medical team notified, irrespective of the degree of fever. AssessmentBody temperature should be measured on admission and
four hourly with other vital signs, unless clinically indicated for more frequent measurements. When assessing body temperatures, it is important to consider patient-based and environmental-based factors, including prior administration of antipyretics and recent environmental exposures. Methods of body temperature measurements:Due to temperature variation between body sites, ideally the same route should be used for ongoing patient observations, as to allow for accurate temperature trend evaluation. Document the route used in EMR. 0-3 months: Axillary Route Procedure:
0-3 months: Rectal Route (if requested) Procedure:
>3 months: Tympanic Route Procedure:
Notes: At Risk Patient GroupsThe following patient populations are at an increased risk of being unable to maintain normothermia:
ManagementPreventative ApproachesA patient’s surrounding environment can greatly impact their ability to maintain an otherwise stable body temperature. Acknowledging and minimising environmental influences on thermoregulation is important for all paediatric patients, especially the neonatal and at risk patient populations. The table below outlines approaches nurses, clinicians and families can utilise towards minimising preventable heat transfer from patients to their surroundings.
Neonatal Management
Paediatric Management
Notes:
Special ConsiderationsThe following patient populations may require more specific interventions and/or differing management when body temperature falls outside traditionally normal values:
Companion Documents
Additional Useful LinksRCH Kids Health Info Fact Sheet on Fever in
Children Evidence Table
Temperature Management Nursing Guideline Evidence Table 2019. References
Please remember to read the
disclaimer. The development of this nursing guideline was coordinated by Elizabeth Cooke, RN, ED, and approved by the Nursing Clinical Effectiveness Committee. Updated August 2019. Which of the following blood pressure readings would be categorized as Stage One Hypertension?Stage 1 high blood pressure is systolic is 130 to 139 or diastolic between 80 to 89. Stage 2 high blood pressure is when systolic is 140 or higher or the diastolic is 90 or higher.
When a physician orders NPO for a patient this means that?A Latin abbreviation for “nothing by mouth.”
When checking a patient for signs of cyanosis the radiographer should note the coloration of the?When checking a patient for signs of cyanosis, the radiographer should note the coloration of the: lips and nail beds.
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