Topic overview

Start with the big picture

Fever is defined in this lesson as a core temperature of at least 38 °C, confirmed with a reliable oral, rectal or tympanic device. Initial assessment includes ABCs and screening for sepsis indicators such as tachycardia, hypotension and altered mentation. Red flags—including neck stiffness, a non-blanching rash, breathing difficulty, focal neurologic deficit, very young age or immunosuppression—warrant emergency referral. A targeted history and examination explore onset, exposures, travel, vaccination, medications, antipyretic use and hydration. Treatment prioritizes comfort rather than normalizing temperature, with attention to appropriate antipyretic use, fluids, monitoring and caregiver advice. The lesson also introduces escalation for suspected sepsis, febrile seizures and selected investigations.