Red onion compresses and warm foot baths to lower body temperature in school-aged children (7-12 years old) with hyperthermia

Abstract

Hyperthermia, or an increase in body temperature, is a condition characterized by a rise in body temperature above the normal range. Fever commonly occurs when a person's health is compromised. Body temperature is considered normal if it falls within the range of 36.5”“37.5°C. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that 216,000 children have died globally due to febrile seizures, affecting more than 21.65 million children. Fever-related seizures are seizures that occur at high body temperatures (body temperature above 38°C) due to extracranial abnormalities. Non-pharmacological management of fever in children can be done by applying red onion compresses and soaking the feet in warm water. The purpose of this case study is to describe the effect of red onion compresses and warm foot baths on reducing body temperature in children with hyperthermia (aged 7”“12 years). This case study uses a descriptive case study design. A questionnaire was administered to patients who met the inclusion criteria, with one respondent suffering from hyperthermia. The results obtained were as follows: before intervention, the body temperature was 38.5°C, and after intervention with red onion compresses and warm foot soaks, it was 36.5°C. Additionally, there were changes in family health management after receiving non-pharmacological education on red onion compresses and warm foot soaks for the care of children with hyperthermia. The conclusion of this case study is that nursing intervention involving red onion compresses and warm foot baths has an effect on lowering body temperature in children of school age (7-12 years) with hyperthermia.

Keywords: Complementary therapy, fever, hyperthermia, nursing care, paediatric nursing