By Erin Dobie, CNP Fever is one of the most common reasons
parents seek medical attention for their child or infant. All
kids get fevers at some point. Studies reveal parents are most
worried about fevers due to the fear that they can cause brain
damage or even death. But, there is no evidence to support these
concerns. As a nurse practitioner in the Emergency Department at
Children’s Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota, I frequently see
kids with fevers. The questions from parents are usually the
same. I wanted to answer some of those questions here. What is a
fever? Fever is defined as a body temperature greater than
100.4°F (38°C). It is part of the body’s natural defense
mechanism and a normal body response to fight infection. Fevers
help the body fight infections by stimulating the immune system.
Fevers slow the growth and reproduction of the virus or
bacteria. They also increase production of antibacterial
substances in the immune system. Should I treat a fever?
Otherwise healthy children and infants (3