Fever Phobia: Parental Perceptions and Management of Pyrexia

Introduction: The febrile child is a common presentation. The aim of the study was to determine parental definition and management of pyrexia and to identify areas where parental education would be of benefit.

Methods: A qualitative questionnaire based study was undertaken. A single interviewer administered 100 questionnaires over a 5-day period to parents attending the Emergency Department. Verbal consent was obtained from all parents/guardians prior to completing the questionnaire.

Results: 100 parents/guardians participated in the study. 75% were mothers with a mean age of 35.8. The majority were Irish and 88% had access to a thermometer at home. Parental definition of fever ranged from 36.5 to 40^oC. 60% of parents define fever at a different limit than defined in ICD-10 (38^oC). 54% of parents/guardians reported that they worry more about fever in infants oC. Reported dosing schedules for Paracetamol were inappropriate in 62% and for Ibuprofen in 57%. 21% of parents feel that all children with fever should be treated with antibiotics and 22% immediately seek medical attention if they perceive their child has a fever. 60% of parents would consult their GP initially if their child had a fever. 64% of parents would describe themselves as fever phobic and 60% are not confident in their ability to manage their child’s temperature at home. 29% of patients had previously received education about fever in children although 99% of those interviewed felt education would be of benefit.

Discussion: Fever phobia is a common phenomenon among parents and guardians of children attending the emergency department with 64% of parents describing themselves as fever phobic. Furthermore parents lack confidence in managing fever at home. There are many parental misconceptions about fever and its management. Education regarding the management of fever is lacking and 99% of parents would welcome formal education on this subject.