Master Fever with Picmonic for Nursing RN

Chills occur when muscles are rapidly contracting and relaxing. This helps the body produce heat when it is feeling cold.

Sweating is the body's way of cooling itself down and usually occurs when a fever breaks.

Fevers can cause a patient to become restless or lethargic.

Hydration is important to keep the patient from becoming dehydrated, which can worsen symptoms.

Watch for signs of dehydration, especially when excessively sweathing, vomiting or experiencing diarrhea. Monitor lab values too.

A normal temperature is 98.6. 100.4 and above is classified as a fever. Monitor all vital signs to watch for signs of dehydration and other complications.

Keep the patient cool by removing excess clothing and blankets. Keep the room at a cooler temperature and offer a cool compress to put on the forehead.

Using lukewarm water, give a 20 to 30 minute sponge bath and be sure to apply water over the back and chest. Check the temperature again 30 minutes after the spongebath.