Which statement about fever management after ischemic stroke is correct?

Which statement about fever management after ischemic stroke is correct?

• A. Fever should be ignored because it has no impact on outcomes.
• B. Fever worsens outcomes; aggressive monitoring and antipyretics or cooling as needed.
• C. Fever has no impact on outcome.
• D. Fever is protective after stroke.

Answer: (B)

Fever after ischemic stroke worsens outcomes because it raises brain metabolic demand and can amplify edema and inflammatory injury, leading to larger infarcts and poorer recovery. Because of this, fever should be tracked closely in the acute phase and treated promptly. Start with antipyretics such as acetaminophen to bring the temperature down. If fever persists or remains high despite medication, cooling strategies—such as cooling blankets or other cooling methods—may be used to maintain normothermia. Also, assess for and treat any underlying infection, but fever itself is harmful and should not be ignored.

Fever after ischemic stroke worsens outcomes because it raises brain metabolic demand and can amplify edema and inflammatory injury, leading to larger infarcts and poorer recovery. Because of this, fever should be tracked closely in the acute phase and treated promptly. Start with antipyretics such as acetaminophen to bring the temperature down. If fever persists or remains high despite medication, cooling strategies—such as cooling blankets or other cooling methods—may be used to maintain normothermia. Also, assess for and treat any underlying infection, but fever itself is harmful and should not be ignored.