When a child has a fever, it can be a worrying time for parents. It is important to monitor their symptoms and make sure they are comfortable. However, in an effort to do everything right, parents can sometimes make mistakes.

Here are 10 common mistakes parents make when their child has a fever:.

Mistake #1: Not Taking the Fever Seriously

One of the biggest mistakes parents make when their child has a fever is to not take it seriously. Some parents may think that a fever is not a big deal, and that their child will just bounce back in no time.

However, fever is a sign that the body is fighting an infection, and it is important to monitor it closely.

Mistake #2: Overmedicating

Another mistake parents make is overmedicating their child. While it’s important to give medication to help bring the fever down, it is also important to follow the recommended dosage and not give medication too frequently.

Overmedicating can actually do more harm than good, and can lead to other health problems.

Mistake #3: Giving the Wrong Type of Medication

It’s important to use the right type of medication when a child has a fever. For example, giving aspirin to a child with a fever can actually lead to a dangerous condition known as Reye’s syndrome.

Parents should always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before giving their child any medication.

Mistake #4: Not Checking the Child’s Temperature Correctly

It’s important to check a child’s temperature correctly, or else the reading may not be accurate. Using an oral thermometer in a child who has just had a drink or eaten something cold can give a lower than accurate reading.

Alternatively, a rectal thermometer may give a higher than accurate reading if it is not inserted correctly.

Related Article How to Avoid Mistakes When Your Child Has a Fever

Mistake #5: Not Hydrating Enough

When a child has a fever, it’s important to make sure they are staying hydrated. Fever can cause the body to lose fluids more quickly than usual, and not drinking enough can make symptoms worse.

Offer plenty of water, juices, or soup to the child to help them stay hydrated.

Mistake #6: Not Watching for Complications

Parents should watch for any signs of complications that could occur when a child has a fever. For example, if the child has a seizure or is unresponsive, immediate medical attention is required.

Other signs to watch for include a rash, difficulty breathing, or severe headache.

Mistake #7: Not Letting the Child Rest

Rest is crucial when a child has a fever. Some parents may feel the need to keep their child active, but this can actually be detrimental to their recovery. Children should be allowed to rest and sleep as much as they need to.

Mistake #8: Not Treating the Underlying Cause

A fever is often a symptom of an underlying condition, such as an infection. It’s important to treat the underlying cause as well as the fever. Not treating the underlying cause can lead to a prolonged illness or complications.

Mistake #9: Being Too Fearful of Fever

While parents should take a fever seriously, it’s also important not to be too fearful of it. Fevers are a natural way for the body to fight off infections, and in most cases, they go away on their own.

However, if a fever persists for more than a few days or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, medical attention should be sought.

Mistake #10: Not Asking for Help

Parents should not be afraid to ask for help when their child has a fever. This could include asking a doctor or nurse for advice, or reaching out to other parents for support.

It’s important to remember that caring for a sick child can be overwhelming, and there is no shame in asking for help.