The correct method for using alcohol to physically reduce fever in babies
Nov 05, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
The alcohol concentration should be low, around 25%–30%. Mix the alcohol with a small amount of warm water. Parents should use gauze or a cotton ball to repeatedly rub the child's palms, soles, armpits, and popliteal fossae until the skin becomes warm and flushed, then stop. Note that this method is strictly prohibited for infants and even newborns, as it may easily cause ethanol poisoning.
Alcohol is a volatile liquid that rapidly evaporates when applied to the skin. During evaporation, it absorbs and removes significant body heat, thereby producing a cooling effect. Additionally, alcohol stimulates the skin and dilates blood vessels. The resulting expansion of skin and blood vessels increases blood flow, accelerating heat dissipation and further contributing to temperature reduction. Therefore, alcohol sponging can be used as a physical method to reduce fever in infants. The correct procedure is as follows:
1. Use low-concentration alcohol, ideally around 25%–30%.
2. Mix the alcohol with a small amount of warm water, bringing the mixture to a temperature close to that of the skin.
3. The caregiver should use gauze or a cotton ball soaked in the alcohol solution to repeatedly rub the child’s palms, soles, armpits, and popliteal fossae.
4. Repeat the process 10 to 20 times, stopping once the skin appears flushed and warm.
Note: This method is strictly contraindicated for infants and even newborns, as it may easily lead to ethanol poisoning.
