How to effectively perform physical cooling for a child with fever

Sep 05, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng

Introduction

Physical cooling is applicable for cases where body temperature is below 38.5°C. If the temperature exceeds 38.5°C, medication for reducing fever should be used in conjunction, and prompt medical attention is necessary. During the procedure, observe the child's response carefully; if chills, pallor, or other discomfort occurs, stop immediately. Avoid using alcohol rubs during cooling to prevent skin irritation or alcohol poisoning.

Fever, also known as pyrexia, can be managed with physical cooling methods when children have a fever. These methods generally include reducing clothing, warm water sponge baths, cold compresses on the forehead, hydration, and regulating the environmental temperature. Appropriate application of these methods can help alleviate fever symptoms. If concerns persist, it is recommended to seek medical advice promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Reduce clothing: Appropriately reduce the child's clothing and bedding to avoid excessive wrapping that may hinder heat dissipation. Choose loose, breathable cotton clothing to allow natural release of body heat. At the same time, keep the abdomen warm to prevent chill.

2. Warm water sponge bath: Use a towel soaked in warm water at 32-34℃ to wipe areas of the child's body with rich blood vessels, such as the forehead, neck, armpits, groin, and limbs. Each session should last 10-15 minutes. The evaporation of water helps remove body surface heat and reduce temperature.

3. Cold compress on the forehead: Wet a towel with cool water, wring it until half-dry, and place it on the child's forehead. Replace every 5-10 minutes, or use a fever patch on the forehead. Localized cooling can relieve head discomfort and prevent irritability caused by high temperature.

4. Hydration: Encourage the child to drink more warm water or light salt water. Increased fluid intake promotes sweating and urination, helping remove internal heat through bodily circulation while preventing dehydration that may accompany fever.

5. Regulate environmental temperature: Ensure good indoor ventilation and maintain room temperature between 24-26℃, avoiding excessive heat or dryness. A humidifier can be used to adjust humidity levels, creating a comfortable environment that aids body cooling.

Physical cooling is suitable for cases where body temperature is below 38.5℃. If the temperature exceeds 38.5℃, medication to reduce fever and timely medical consultation are necessary. While performing these measures, observe the child's reactions. If chills, pale skin, or other discomforts occur, stop immediately. Alcohol sponge baths should be avoided during cooling to prevent skin irritation or alcohol poisoning.

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