Have you ever experienced waking up at night because
your child was shaking with high fever? Having a sick child at home is a cause
for worry most especially if you’re a solo working parent. Now if you’re the
doting mom, of course there’s no better way of making your tot feel at least
comfortable than by having yourself at his side. Here are proven practical ways
in caring for children when they’re
sick:
- Temperature- Anything between 35.5 and 37.5 °C (others put it at 37.0 °C or 98.6 °F) is considered normal
body temperature for anyone, young or old. Any change above the
normal body temperature is
already a fever. Fever is usually caused by infection. But
it doesn’t always mean there’s a severe infection if the temperature is a bit higher.
Just be around to take his
temperature as needed. Also, you really don’t have to worry until you
see a doctor. However, if it’s a very young infant who’s sick, bring him
straight away to the doctor.
- Fever
reliever- Give your kid paracetamol
(also known as acetaminophen) to relieve pain and fever. Given at the right
time with the right dosage should be enough to bring the fever down in 24 to 48
hours. Give him a sponge bath of water or mild alcohol on the entire body. Change
his clothing once he gets sweaty.
- Liquids- Small but
frequent sips of water or fresh fruit juice prevent dehydration, a condition
that sets in with high temperatures. I remember grandma used to have me drink
cool water to lessen body heat during a fever. Also, be sure to have his
favorite soup along with an attractive healthy meal. Remember, a feverish kid
more often than not lose his appetite so it’s wise to have a colorful meal
seasoned according to his taste. Fresh fruits or congee are good snack options.
Healthy food gives your tot enough energy to withstand the fever.
- Beddings, fresh air and
sun- You’ll make your child feel better with fresh beddings and linens to sleep
on. If you’re living in a safe neighborhood, it’s best to have a window open to
let fresh air in. Also whenever you can, expose him to early morning sunlight.
These will give him enough comfort.
- And of course, top that
with a mother’s healing touch. It can help calm your tot down, reduce the pain and stress. It could even
help him recover fast, so give him a
gentle massage. According to studies, healing touch is a great way to help people feel better
physically, emotionally, spiritually and mentally. You get back the same treatment more or less if
you get sick. There are a lot of ways in caring for children during an illness.
Have you any similar
experience to add? Please share your thoughts and leave your comment.
Getting invited to spend a weekend
in some new resort always excites the nature lover especially if the resort happens
to be in a nearby island. This could mean great fun at much cheaper costs than
spending the day at some hotel resort. And it could be doubly exciting if
you’re going in the company of well-meaning friends. 
