Fever: a concept analysis.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this paper is to critically analyse the current state of the science literature in order to develop an accurate conception of fever.


BACKGROUND
The measurement of body temperature and treatment of fever have long been considered to be within the domain of nursing practice. What body temperature constitutes 'fever', however, is often not clear from nursing protocols or the literature.


METHODS
Literature for this concept analysis was obtained by computerized searches of PubMed, CINAHL and BIOSYS for the years 1980-2004. Additional sources were obtained after reviewing the bibliographies of the literature identified by the initial search. The Wilsonian method of concept analysis provided the framework for the analysis.


RESULTS
Fever has characteristically been recognized as a cardinal sign of illness and has traditionally had negative connotations for patient well-being. Substantive advances over the past 20 years in immunology and neurophysiology have expanded understanding of the process of fever. This new knowledge has shifted the perception of fever as part of the acute-phase response to one of an adaptive nature. This knowledge has yet to be fully translated into changes in the fever management practices of nurses.


CONCLUSIONS
Consistent usage of terminology in relation to fever should lead to improved and evidence-based care for patients, and to fever management practices consistent with current research. It is important to use clear language about fever and hyperthermia in discussions and documentation between nurses and among disciplines. By creating clarity in our language, we may help to achieve praxis.
Thompson
Hilaire J
HJ
Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Systems, University of Washington, Seattle 98195-7266, USA. hilairet@u.washington.edu
D001007:Anxiety / Q000523:psychology; D001294:Attitude to Health; D001831:Body Temperature / Q000502:physiology; D001833:Body Temperature Regulation / Q000502:physiology; D003210:Concept Formation; D004644:Emotions; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D005334:Fever / Q000276:immunology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008954:Models, Biological; D012931:Social Environment