A critically ill child has hyperthermia. The parents ask the nurse to give an antipyretic such as acetaminophen. How should the nurse respond to the parents?
a. Febrile seizures can result.
b. Antipyretics may cause malignant hyperthermia.
c. Antipyretics are of no value in treating hyperthermia.
d. Liver damage may occur in critically ill children.
ANS: C
Unlike with fever, antipyretics are of no value in hyperthermia because the set point is already normal. Cooling measures are used instead. Antipyretics do not cause seizures. Malignant hyperthermia is a genetic myopathy that is triggered by anesthetic agents. Antipyretic agents do not have this effect. Acetaminophen can result in liver damage if too much is given or if the liver is already compromised. Other antipyretics are available, but they are of no value in hyperthermia.
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