Warm compress to reduce fever in children with typhoid fever

Abstract

Fever is a physiological defense mechanism utilized by the body to combat infectious agents or hazardous substances. In the management of pediatric hyperthermia, non-pharmacological interventions such as warm compress therapy serve as a critical adjunct to standard care. This method involves applying a cloth soaked in warm water (37°C-40°C) to specific vascular areas, such as the forehead or the inguinal folds (thighs), to facilitate heat loss through conduction and evaporation. This case study aimed to evaluate the clinical implementation of warm compresses for managing fever in children diagnosed with typhoid fever. The methodology employed was a descriptive case study design, illustrating the comprehensive nursing care process for a pediatric patient presenting with typhoid-related hyperthermia. The primary nursing diagnosis identified was Hyperthermia, for which warm compress therapy was selected as the core intervention. Implementation was carried out over three consecutive days, resulting in a significant reduction in core body temperature from 39.8°C to a stable 36.5°C. These findings demonstrate that warm compresses are a highly effective and accessible nursing intervention for reducing fever in children suffering from hyperthermia due to typhoid infection.

Keywords: Complementary therapy, nursing care, symptom management, thyroid, warm compress