Quick methods for reducing fever in infants

Mar 01, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
In general, fever reduction refers to antipyresis. A useful tip for reducing fever in infants is physical cooling, primarily using alcohol wiping. Use gauze or a soft small towel dipped in alcohol from a bowl. Begin by wiping the upper body: start from the outer side of the neck, down the outer side of the upper limb to the back of the hand; then from the side of the chest, through the armpit, down the inner side of the upper limb to the palm. Repeat the same procedure on the other upper limb. Wipe each limb for three minutes before moving to the other side.

Generally speaking, there is no such thing as a "quick method to reduce fever in infants." Fever reduction in infants usually involves physical cooling methods, primarily using alcohol wipe baths. The specific procedures are as follows:

1. Mix 70% alcohol with warm water in a 1:1 ratio, or 75% alcohol with warm water in a 1:2 ratio. If alcohol is unavailable, you may use Erguotou liquor (a type of Chinese白酒) mixed with warm water in a 1:4 ratio, and place the solution in a small bowl.

2. Close doors and windows before starting the wipe bath, and comfort the infant to keep them calm.

3. Use gauze or a soft small towel to soak up the alcohol solution from the bowl. Begin wiping the upper body: start from the outer side of the neck, move down the outer side of the upper limb to the back of the hand; then from the side of the chest, through the armpit, along the inner side of the upper limb to the palm. Repeat the same process on the other arm.

4. For the back and waist area, position the infant on their side and wipe for approximately three minutes. For the lower limbs: start from the iliac bone, down the outer side of the leg to the dorsum of the foot; from the groin, down the inner side of the leg to the medial malleolus; and from the lower thigh, through the popliteal fossa, to the heel.

5. Wipe each limb for about three minutes before moving to the opposite side.

Note: If the infant experiences recurrent fever accompanied by poor精神, appetite, or sleep, seek immediate medical attention at a hospital.