Fever plays an important role in helping the body fight off infection, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians, the two leading authorities on the medical care of children. From a medical perspective, it’s not necessary to treat fever. But doing so can make a child more comfortable and help promote rest. Sponging is a natural fever reducer for children that works well on its own or as a complement to other treatment methods, such as over-the-counter medications.
Preparation
To sponge a child, fill the child’s regular bath--baby bath or regular tub--with 1 to 2 inches of lukewarm water. Test water temperature with a thermometer or the back of the hand or wrist. The thermometer should read 85 to 90 degrees F; water should feel slightly warm on the back of the hand or wrist. Ambient air should be maintained at approximately 75 degrees F.
Sponging
A parent should put the child in the bath and gently drizzle water over the child’s trunk, arms and legs using a sponge or washcloth. The Academy of Pediatrics recommends having the child sit, because it is more comfortable than lying down.
Indications
Sponging is appropriate for any child with a fever. Sponging should be considered the primary method of fever reduction in children with a documented allergy or history of intolerance to fever-reducing medication.
Contraindications
Shivering may exacerbate fever and prolong recovery from the primary illness. Remove a shivering child from the tub or replace tepid water with warm water until shivering stops. Children who become severely distressed or agitated should be allowed to return to bed. According to the the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, sponging can also be done at the bedside, using a basin of cool water and a clean cloth or sponge.
Warnings
Do not add rubbing alcohol to bath water. Rubbing alcohol can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled, producing serious side effects, including coma.
Effectiveness
Sponging will produce a one- to two-degree reduction in body temperature within 30 to 45 minutes, according to the Academy of Pediatrics. Sponging can be done until the child becomes comfortable.
