What constitutes a temperature?

[sotiredandfedup]

I have heard conflicting advice.

I thought normal temp was 36 - 37. Anything above 37 is a slight temperature and 38 is considered a fever? Or am I wrong?

I would only usually give calpol / nurofen if it rises above 38.

Is this right?

It depends on the person. I am very ill with a temperature of just 37.8; my dh has had temperatures of 41.

I give calpol/nurofen when my child is in discomfort or is feverish hot/lethargic/ sometimes shaking.

The children's creche consider a temperature to be 38.5.

belgo, I think adult thresholds are lower.

Sotired, children's temps can go up to 37.7/.8 from just running around but yes, above 38 is a fever. You don't need to give calpol just because they have a fever. The NICE guidelines say you should only treat a fever if it is causing discomfort because it is actually a good thing and is helping the body to fight off the illness. Hth