What is the first aid for a child having a fever-induced seizure?

Sep 05, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng

Introduction

Fever, also known as pyrexia, requires immediate first-aid measures when a child experiences convulsions due to high body temperature. Recommended steps include positioning the child on their side, loosening clothing, clearing the nose and mouth, avoiding forced restraint, and seeking timely medical attention. Following standardized procedures can help reduce risks. In daily care, it is important to monitor the child's body temperature regularly, promptly reduce fever, and prevent sudden rises in temperature that may trigger convulsions. When seeking medical care, inform the doctor about specific details such as the duration and characteristics of the convulsions.

Febrile convulsion, also known as fever, generally requires the following first-aid steps when a child experiences convulsions due to fever: maintaining a lateral position, loosening clothing, clearing the mouth and nose, avoiding forceful intervention, and seeking medical help promptly. Following these procedures properly can reduce risks. Detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Maintain a lateral position: Immediately place the convulsing child flat on a secure surface such as the floor or bed and quickly turn them onto their side with the head tilted to one side. This prevents vomit or secretions from blocking the airway and ensures unobstructed breathing.

2. Loosen clothing: Undo the child's collar, cuffs, and other tight clothing, and loosen the belt to reduce physical restraint, aid heat dissipation, and prevent pressure on the neck that might affect breathing.

3. Clear the mouth and nose: If there are secretions or vomit in the child's mouth or nose, gently wipe and remove them with clean gauze or a cloth to keep the airway clean. Do not insert any objects into the mouth to dig or scrape.

4. Avoid forceful intervention: Do not forcibly press the child's limbs, pry open the mouth, or give anything orally. These actions may cause physical injury, loose teeth, or choking. Simply stay close to prevent falls or collisions.

5. Seek medical help promptly: After the convulsion stops, take the child to the hospital immediately. If the seizure lasts more than five minutes without subsiding, call emergency services while continuing to monitor the child and wait for professional assistance.

Febrile convulsions are often caused by high fever-induced seizures. It is important to remain calm during first aid and strictly follow the above steps. Regularly monitor the child's body temperature, promptly reduce fever when it occurs, and avoid sudden temperature increases that may trigger convulsions. When seeking medical care, inform the doctor of the duration and characteristics of the convulsion to assist in accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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At what temperature in degrees Celsius should a child take Meilin (ibuprofen)?

Whether a child with fever can take ibuprofen suspension mainly depends on their physical condition. For simple fever, it is recommended to take the medication under a doctor's guidance when the temperature is above 38.5°C. If symptoms are severe or persist for a prolonged period, the medication may still be taken under a doctor's guidance even if the temperature does not reach 38.5°C. Consult a doctor before taking the medication to understand precautions and contraindications; if there are any contraindications, the medication is not recommended.

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How to effectively perform physical cooling for a child with fever

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.

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What to do if a 3-year-old child has a fever

Fever, also known as pyrexia, in a 3-year-old child may be caused by excessive clothing, increased metabolic rate after eating, common cold, acute pharyngitis, bacterial bronchitis, etc. It can usually be managed by adjusting clothing, physical cooling methods, and medication. In daily life, the child's body temperature should be monitored every half to one hour, and the child should not be overdressed or covered to induce sweating during fever.

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How to perform physical cooling for a child with fever

Fever, also known as pyrexia, can be managed in children through physical cooling methods such as reducing clothing to facilitate heat dissipation, wiping the body with lukewarm water, applying a cold compress to the forehead, ensuring adequate hydration, and adjusting the indoor environment. Scientific approaches can assist in lowering body temperature. Appropriately removing excess clothing and heavy bedding from the child, and dressing them in loose, breathable cotton garments can help the body release heat naturally.