The client is febrile, and the temperature needs to be reduced. The nu

The client is febrile, and the temperature needs to be reduced. The nurse anticipates that treat-ment will include:

1. An alcohol and water bath
2. Ice packs to the axillae and groin
3. Tepid, plain water sponge down
4. Application of a cooling blanket

ANSWER

ANS: 4
Blankets cooled by circulating water delivered by motorized units increase conductive heat loss. Cooling blankets are used to reduce a fever. Bathing with an alcohol/water solution is not rec-ommended because it may lead to shivering. Shivering is counterproductive and can increase en-ergy expenditure up to 400%. Application of ice packs to the axillae and groin is no longer rec-ommended because they may induce shivering (which is counterproductive and increases the client’s energy expenditure), and because they have no advantage over antipyretic medications.
Tepid sponge baths are no longer recommended because it may lead to shivering and is no more advantageous than administering antipyretics.