How to Bring Down an Infant's Temperature

Certain factors such as overdressing an infant, teething, illness and immunizations can cause a fever in an infant. If you notice your infant feels hot to the touch, this can indicate a possible fever. To accurately take your infant's temperature, take her temperature rectally. Certain techniques can help reduce your infant's fever. However, if you have an infant younger than 3 months with a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, notify your physician. Infants over 3 months who have a fever of 102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, as well as a fever lasting for more than a day, will also require prompt treatment.

Things You'll Need

• Rectal thermometer
• Baby formula
• Baby blanket
• Lukewarm water
• Baby bathtub
• Rehydration solution
• Infant acetaminophen

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Instructions

Infants Under 3 Months

• 1

  Offer your infant fluids via breastfeeding or formula (depending upon your feeding methods). While it's normal for your infant to become fussy with a fever, notify your physician if he refuses to eat for several feedings. Dehydration can become dangerous in infants.

• 2

  Remove excess clothing from your infant to bring down her body temperature. Give your infant a baby blanket if she begins to shiver.

• 3

  Give your infant a lukewarm bath, especially if he suffers from febrile seizures (convulsions) Using a washcloth soaked in lukewarm water and rubbing the cloth over your infant's skin can also provide relief. Febrile seizures can be brought on by fever.

Infants Over 3 Months

• 4

  Offer rehydration fluids to older infants with your physician's recommendation. Children younger than 1 year old can benefit from oral electrolyte solutions.

• 5

  Allow your child to rest. Too much activity will elevate body temperature.

• 6

  Provide relief for your child by administering acetaminophen. However, ask your physician for the recommended dosage for your infant according to her weight.