The correct method for using alcohol to physically reduce fever in babies
Mar 01, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
The alcohol concentration used 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 flushed and warm, 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. As it evaporates, it absorbs and removes substantial body heat, thereby producing a cooling effect. Additionally, alcohol stimulates the skin and dilates blood vessels. The resulting expansion of the skin and blood vessels increases blood flow, accelerating heat dissipation and further contributing to降温 (temperature reduction). Therefore, for infants with fever, physical cooling using alcohol擦拭 (alcohol wipes) can be considered. 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, ensuring the mixture's temperature is close to skin temperature.
3. Parents 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.
